Up to 16 people in the Kootenays will receive tuition-free carpentry training, industry certifications and paid work experience through a new provincially funded program.
The Industry-Ready Carpentry Foundation project will be delivered by Kootenay Career Development Society in partnership with Selkirk College. Funding comes from the federal government under the Canada-British Columbia Labour Market Development Agreement.
“We want people to have the support they need to find in-demand jobs and build stronger futures for themselves and their families,” said Sheila Malcolmson, B.C. Minister of Social Development and Poverty Reduction. “That’s why we’re funding more training to help people learn practical skills and get the industry-recognized credentials and work experience they need to move into good-paying jobs in the skilled trades.”
The program combines carpentry training at Selkirk College with certifications including first aid, WHMIS, forklift operation and fall protection. Participants will also receive tools and a six-week paid work placement with a local employer, while eligible participants can receive financial support.
“This program creates a direct pathway into the skilled trades by combining tuition-free training, industry certificates, paid work experience and employment support,” said Jenn Tynan, director of operations and strategic initiatives at Kootenay Career Development Society. “Tuition and training costs are fully covered, helping to remove financial barriers to entering the trades. By connecting participants to local opportunities while building in-demand skills, this initiative supports both job seekers and the workforce needs of communities and employers across the region.”
WorkBC projects more than 10,000 job openings for carpenters in B.C. between 2025 and 2035, according to information provided with the program announcement.
“Selkirk College is committed to providing meaningful training opportunities for people in the region,” said Tracy Punchard, dean of industry and trades training at Selkirk College. “We’re excited to collaborate with community and industry partners on the Industry-Ready Carpentry Program and are grateful for support from the ministry. The value of this partnership is the additional training and support we can offer to learners seeking to transition into high-demand careers in the skilled trades.”
The province said the project is intended to reduce financial barriers to entering the trades while helping employers find skilled workers.
“The Kootenays need more skilled workers to support growing communities and local businesses. This training project will help people access rewarding careers close to home while giving employers a direct pathway to recruit job-ready workers with in-demand skills,” said Brittny Anderson, MLA for Kootenay Central.
The province also linked the project to its Look West economic strategy, saying it will help strengthen B.C.’s workforce and connect people with skilled-trades careers.
“Rural communities depend on a strong local workforce, and projects like this help connect people to the skills and experience needed to succeed in the trades. By creating pathways to good jobs close to home and helping employers find skilled workers, this investment supports stronger communities and long-term economic growth throughout the Kootenays,” said Steve Morissette, B.C. parliamentary secretary for rural development.
