Women in Trades Training (WITT) 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 women 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 women 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.
Watch this info session or scroll to learn about the programs.
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 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
- Electrical
- Heavy Equipment Operator
- Heavy Mechanical Trades
- Motorcycle Marine Technician
- Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic
- Welding
Students will also receive certificate training that may include:
- Confined Space
- Fall Protection
- Occupational First Aid Level 1
- 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 get added to the Interest List for upcoming cohorts.
- Nanaimo Summer 2023
How to Apply
We accept applications on an ongoing basis, up to one month before the start of a program.
- Check that you qualify for the funding requirements.
- Fill out this application form.
- The Program Coordinator will contact you for next steps.
For questions or help with the application process, contact:
Program Coordinator: Amanda Aust
Phone: 250.748.4529 Ext: 3705
Email: Amanda.Aust@viu.ca
Trades Foundation Program
Women in Trades Training (WITT) offers sponsorship for eligible women in their pursuit of becoming a tradesperson through financial and other supports of Foundation level programs at VIU in a Red-Seal trade where women are underrepresented.
Program Details
WITT 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 particular program. Check the Admission Requirements section for the Trades Foundation program page.
Costs Covered
WITT 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.
How to apply
- Apply to a Trades Foundation program at VIU.
- Check that you qualify for the funding requirements.
- Fill out the application form.
- The Program Coordinator will contact you for 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: 3705
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