The Indigenous Peoples in Trades Training (IPTT) programs give you the training you need to jump start work in the trades industry. The programs provide you with funding and support towards tuition, books, tools, PPE, industry safety certificates, and more. You will get real work experience and network with employers and other folks in the trades. At the end of this program, you will have the training you need to start working as an entry-level labourer or go on to pursue further training towards a Red Seal apprenticeship.
Funding is available to help students in one of two pathways:
- Trades Discovery Program gives you the opportunity to sample industry trades with hands-on experience and safety training. At the end of this program, you will have the necessary skills to get employed as an entry level labourer or go on to pursue further training towards a Red Seal trade.
- Trades Foundation Sponsorship helps you pursue a career as a trades person by funding your first year in the Red Seal trade foundation program of your choice.
Info Sessions are held on Zoom every Wednesday 12 - 12:30 pm.
Watch this info session or scroll to learn about the programs.
Trade Discovery Program (TDP)
12 week non-credit program
These career exploration programs will expose you to different trades and career options, with a focus on safety, skills upgrading, and enhancing your job readiness. You'll experience hands-on learning opportunities, safety training, and career mentorship, and job-site tours with industry employers. You'll develop a resume, network with employers, gain real work experience, so you can feel ready for your next step.
Program Details
Students will receive exposure to a variety of trades that may include:
- Automotive Mechanics
- Carpentry
- Culinary
- Electrical
- Hair Styling
- Heavy Equipment Operator
- Heavy Mechanical Trades
- Horticulture
- Motorcycle Marine Technician
- Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic
- Welding
- Culinary Arts
- Hairstylist
- Horticulture
Students will also receive certificate training that may include:
- Confined Space
- Fall Protection
- Food Safe
- Occupational First Aid
- WHMIS
Costs Covered
Tuition is fully funded for eligible applicants, with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and learning materials provided.
Start Dates
Please contact the Program Coordinator to be added to the Interest List for upcoming cohorts.
- Cowichan Spring 2023 (January - March)
How to Apply
- Check that you qualify for the funding requirements
- Fill out the application form
-
The Program Coordinator will contact you for the next steps
We accept applications on an ongoing basis, up to one month before the start of a program. For questions or help with the application process, contact:
Program Coordinator: Amanda Aust
Phone: 250.748.4529 Ext. 3532
Email: Amanda.Aust@viu.ca
Trades Foundation Training
VIU Indigenous Peoples in Trades Training IPTT) offers sponsorship for eligible Indigenous peoples in their pursuit of becoming a tradesperson through financial and other supports of Foundation level programs at VIU in a Red-Seal trade.
Program Details
IPTT can sponsor the following trades Foundation programs at VIU:
- Automotive Service Technician
- Carpentry
- Electrician
- Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation
- Marine and Motorcycle Mechanical Technician
- Refrigeration Air-Conditioning Mechanic
- Welding
For more information on these programs, please visit VIU Trades and Applied Technology.
To apply to a VIU Foundation program, applicants must have the prerequisites for that program. Check the Admission Requirements section for the Trades Foundation program.
Costs Covered
IPTT sponsorship includes financial support towards tuition, textbooks, tools, and personal protective equipment (PPE) for a Foundation program at VIU. You will also receive employment supports and networking opportunities.
Admission Requirements
To apply for IPTT sponsorship for Foundation programming at VIU, applicants must have the prerequisites for the Foundation program. Check the Admission Requirements tab for any of Vancouver Island University's Trades Foundation program (pre-apprentice programs) and their respective prerequisites.
How to apply
- Apply to a Trades Foundation Program at VIU
- Check that you qualify for the funding requirements
- Complete and submit the application form
-
The Program Coordinator will contact you for the next steps
We accept applications on an ongoing basis. For questions or help with the application process, contact:
Program Coordinator: Amanda Aust
Phone: 250.748.4529 Ext. 3532
Email: Amanda.Aust@viu.ca
Sabrina O’Neill
“Being in Trades allows me to work with my hands while using problem-solving skills with projects. This gives me the feeling of accomplishment.
Upon acceptance into Welding Foundations at Vancouver Island University, I was looking for guidance with this new adventure. Indigenous Peoples in Trades Training (IPTT) has supported me every step of the way.
I am appreciative of IPTT, they have helped me with more than I could have imagined – from financing to networking.
With my newly acquired knowledge and skills, I am inspired and motivated to work towards my welding career.”
VIU Welding Foundation Program Graduate