B.C. adds 224 trades training seats at VCC

Expansion targets workforce needs in automotive, electrical and mechanical trades. IMAGE: Vancouver Community College The British Columbia government is adding 224 skilled-trades training seats at Vancouver Community College (VCC) for the 2026-27 academic year as it works to address labour demand across several major industries. The additional spaces will bring the number of trades training seats at VCC to more than 1,770 this year. They form part of a provincewide expansion adding 5,000 seats in every region of B.C. during 2026-27. The expansion is supported by $241 million over three years through the province's Look West economic strategy. The funding is intended to train more people for in-demand occupations and help them enter the workforce sooner. 'We're increasing our skilled-trades training seats, so more people can get good jobs as part of the Look West economic plan,' said Jennifer Whiteside, B.C.'s minister of labour. 'We continue to build on B.C.'s strengths, our people, by training up and growing our skilled workforce, and creating opportunities for people and businesses that will benefit families and communities throughout our province.' The new seats at VCC will increase capacity in occupations including automotive service technician, construction electrician, heavy mechanical trades, and refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic. The expansion is also expected to shorten apprenticeship-program wait lists and introduce more young people to careers in the trades. Demand for skilled workers is being driven by current and planned projects in construction, clean energy, mining, transportation and advanced technology, according to the provincial government. 'Industry leaders and businesses have told us they need more skilled-trades workers to fill job openings across all major projects underway and on the horizon throughout B.C.,' said Jessie Sunner, minister of post-secondary education and future skills. Sunner said expanding training at VCC will help build the province's pool of skilled tradespeople while giving employers access to the workers required to grow their operations. Ajay Patel, president and CEO of VCC, said the expansion will allow more learners to prepare for rewarding careers while helping address workforce needs across the province. 'This funding reinforces VCC's commitment to preparing graduates for meaningful careers and strengthening the communities they will serve,' Patel said.