SkilledTradesBC is launching the Look West Workforce Readiness Initiative, a project-based funding program that will invest $40 million over three years to strengthen trades-training opportunities.
As part of the Province’s more than $240-million Look West skilled trades-training investment, the Workforce Readiness Initiative builds on SkilledTradesBC’s recent efforts to expand training capacity. This includes 5,000 new training seats in 2026-27 and increased ongoing per-seat funding for apprenticeship programs, helping reduce technical training wait lists and strengthen training delivery throughout the province.
The Look West Workforce Readiness Initiative will provide $40 million over three years to support projects that:
- advance trades training in B.C.’s strategic economic sectors and major project areas.
- improve apprenticeship progression, retention and completion outcomes.
- strengthen capacity to deliver higher-quality, more accessible and expanded training opportunities, for Indigenous Peoples, rural and remote communities and equity-deserving groups.
- support apprentices in overcoming barriers to completing their training.
- enhance on-the-job training and apprenticeship pathways through partnerships between communities, training providers, unions and employers.
“The Workforce Readiness Initiative builds on the investment already underway to expand trades training across B.C.,” said Shelley Gray, CEO, SkilledTradesBC. “This initiative is about creating more opportunities for people to get the training they need, complete their apprenticeships, and build meaningful, rewarding careers that support themselves, their families and their communities.”
Applications will be accepted until Sept. 15, 2026.
