Vancouver Island University (VIU) will receive 64 new skilled-trades training seats as part of B.C.’s Look West strategy commitment to deliver 5,000 new trades training seats in 2026-27.

This will bring the total number of trades training seats available at Vancouver Island University to 1,550 this year.

The province is investing $241 million over three years to train British Columbians for in-demand jobs, helping more people enter training and move onto job sites quicker.

The new seats will reduce wait lists for in-demand apprenticeship programs, introduce more young people to the trades and increase training capacity in high-demand occupations, including carpentry and recreational vehicle service technician.

“These additional seats will help more people on Vancouver Island build rewarding careers in the skilled trades without needing to leave the region. By expanding access to high-demand programs, we’re helping develop the workforce our communities and employers need while creating more opportunities for people to build meaningful careers close to home,” said Dennis Johnson, interim president and vice-chancellor, Vancouver Island University.

Major projects in the construction and transportation sectors are driving demand for skilled workers throughout British Columbia, including on Vancouver Island.

“More trades seats at VIU mean more young people can get the skills they need and find good-paying jobs right here in our community. That’s the real opportunity: the chance to build a career and life close to home,” said George Anderson, MLA for Nanaimo-Lantzville.