Funding is available to help women receive funding in one of two pathways:
Trade Discovery Programs – 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 site tours with industry employers. You'll develop a resume, practice interview and job search skills, and enhance team-building experience.
Program Framework
Students will receive exposure to a variety of trades that may include:
- Automotive Mechanics
- Carpentry
- Electrical
- Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic
- Welding
Students will also receive certificate training that may include:
- Confined Space
- Fall Protection
- Food Safe
- Occupational First Aid Level 1
- WHMIS
Offerings
At this time we will be offering hybrid delivery of TDPs with both online training and face-to-face sessions for the following semesters:
- Fall 2021 Semester in Nanaimo, starting August 2021
- Spring 2022 Semester in Cowichan, starting January 2022
We are currently accepting applications for both programs on an ongoing basis.
Costs
Tuition is fully funded for eligible applicants. Vouchers for personal protective equipment (PPE) where applicable.
How to Apply
Determine your eligibility, found in funding requirements.
Send a one-page letter of intention to include:
- Your eligibility as per the funding requirements
- Description of why you are interested in the program, and what your future career goals are
- Description of your past work, and educational experiences
- Include phone and email contact info
For more information and to send your completed letter and a copy of your resume, please email: Amanda.Aust@viu.ca
Once your eligibility is confirmed, the Coordinator will be in touch via email to arrange an appointment.
Program Coordinator: Amanda Aust | Phone: 250-748-4529 Ext. 3532 | Email: Amanda.Aust@viu.ca
Trades Foundation Program
VIU Women in Trades Training offers sponsorship for eligible and selected women in their pursuit of becoming a tradesperson by supporting Foundation training at the university.
Program Framework
Course outlines are trade specific. Please see VIU Trades and Applied Technology for more details.
Costs
Women in Trades Training Foundation sponsorships may include full tuition, textbooks, and personal protective equipment (PPE) where applicable.
Admission Requirements
To apply for WITT sponsorship for Foundation programming at VIU, applicants must have the prerequisites for that particular 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.
Once you have received confirmation of enrollment from registration, send a one page letter including:
- Your eligibility as per the funding requirements
- Your reasons for entering a foundation program and career aspirations
- A description of work history and educational experiences
- Phone and email contact information
For more information and to send your completed letter and a copy of your resume, please email: Amanda.Aust@viu.ca
Once your eligibility is confirmed, the Coordinator will be in touch via email to arrange an interview.
Program Coordinator: Amanda Aust | Phone: 250-748-4529 Ext. 3532 | Email: Amanda.Aust@viu.ca
Margaret O'Neill
"My final exam was on a Thursday and my first day at my new job was the next day!! I was hired by Subzero Heating and Cooling and I'm thrilled to start working in the trade. Thank you all for your dedication to my learning and helping me achieve these goals. I would not have been able to get this far without your help. The opportunity to be in this program has changed my life. I'll make you proud out there in the field and encourage other women to take the leap too."
Refrigeration Air Conditioning Mechanic program graduate