What is an apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship is a training process in British Columbia where you work towards achieving journey person Red Seal qualifications. You need to attend prescribed in-school technical training classes and complete a set number of work-based training hours.
What apprenticeship programs does VIU offer?
Currently VIU offers apprenticeship training in:
- Automotive (Levels 1, 2, 3 and 4)
- Baking (Levels 2 and 3)
- Carpentry (Levels 1, 2, 3 and 4)
- Professional Cook (Level 3 when there is enough demand)
- Electrical (Levels 1, 2, 3 and 4)
- Hairdressing (Level 2)
- Horticulture (Level 3)
- Heavy Mechanical Trades (Levels 1, 2, 3 and 4 as well as Level 4 Truck and Transport Mechanic)
- Motorcycle and Marine Technician (Level 2)
- Refrigeration (Levels 2 and 3)
- RV Service Technician (Levels 1, 2 and 3)
- Welder (Level B)
Inter-Provincial Study Information
How to apply for apprenticeship technical training classes
Apprenticeship training classes at Vancouver Island University fill on a first-come, first-registered basis, with waiting lists established in many trades and levels. Program schedules are available at Trades Training BC
Apply now though the VIU website. Financial aid is available.
If you are completing a paper application, please mail it to:
Attn: Apprenticeship, Building 180
Vancouver Island University
900 Fifth St,
Nanaimo, BC V9R 5S5
If you have questions, contact Apprenticeship at 250.740.6227 or Apprentice@viu.ca
Why get Red Seal endorsement?
Apprenticeships lead to Red Seal endorsement, which has many benefits.
National recognition
- gives you the chance to be promoted at work and earn more money
- shows you have reached the highest accreditation for your trade in Canada
- makes it easier to work in any province or territory across Canada
- creates opportunities for working internationally
Personal achievement
- it’s a significant professional milestone and gives you a sense of pride in your success
- shows your dedication to keeping high standards in your career
- makes you more trusted as a professional
Professional credibility
- helps your resume stand out to help you get advanced jobs like a school educator
- promotes high training and assessment standards which raises the overall quality in any industry
- leads to better products, more successful businesses and happier customers
Jesse Livingston, Apprenticeship and Electrician Student
“When I heard that VIU would be offering the Electrical Apprenticeship Training Program I was one of the first students to sign up. During the 40 weeks I spent there over a period of 3 years I enjoyed my time thoroughly. The faculty and staff were very helpful, courteous and understanding. There was always tutoring available should it be required and no one individual was ever singled out. The teachers encouraged group learning and were always available to help work through some of the more difficult formulas and theory.”