Foundation program
In the Carpentry Foundation program in Cowichan you'll have fun, work hard and gain skills you'll use for years to come.
Real-world experience
During the program you'll put your new framing and carpentry skills into practice working with a local contractor to build a home in the community.
Why take the Carpentry Foundation program?
You finish the program as a Level 1 Carpentry Apprentice, and you'll earn a good wage. When you enter the workforce without training, you start as a labourer, and it can take years before you earn what a Level 1 Apprentice makes.
Why train in Cowichan?
Cowichan is growing quickly, and there is lots of work available in the building industry. For the past six years, the Cowichan program has had a 100% employment rate after graduation. Every student found a good job in the industry.
What to expect
Classes are 8 am to 3 pm, Monday to Thursday, and you can expect to spend up to two hours a day on homework. You'll train in the classroom, in our workshop and on a jobsite.
For details on fees, schedules, admission requirements and more, see the program details page.
Your instructor
Andrew MacLeod, a Red Seal carpenter, has worked in the building industry since 2001. He has worked for several companies and runs his own construction company, MacLeod Carpentry. Andrew has been teaching carpentry since 2017. He's taught carpentry in the indigenous communities Kyuquot, Ty-histanis and Mowachaht/Muchalaht on Vancouver Island. He now teaches at VIU's Nanaimo and Cowichan campuses.
Apply
Ready to join us at VIU? The Cowichan Carpentry Foundation program accepts applications year-round.