Skilled trades careers in British Columbia offer real benefits for people new to the employment world and for those looking to transition to a different career path later in their lives. Unfortunately, however, misconceptions about trades in BC have created barriers for some of the individuals most suited to these in-demand careers. Some of the most commonly repeated myths about trades careers include the following:

In reality, none of these statements are true. Separating the real facts about trades from the myths and misconceptions about these careers can allow you to choose the best options for future employment. BC apprenticeships in skilled trades could be the starting point for careers that deliver personal satisfaction and financial success.

The stereotype of the plumber or HVAC technician with dirty hands and dirty clothes has been replaced by a greater understanding that skilled trades include many career paths that do not fit this mold. Electronics technicians, power engineers, refrigeration plant operators, architectural and structural computer-aided design and aviation management professionals are unlikely to get their hands or clothes dirty during the course of their regular activities and tasks.

While construction workers, HVAC technicians, auto mechanics and machinists may be called upon to do some heavy lifting from time to time, careers in trades require mental effort far more than physical labour. The training and experience required to pursue a career in skilled trades can allow you to put your intellect to work every day. Dismissing trades positions as jobs only for the physically strong could prevent you from achieving success in these in-demand fields.

Rather than being a fallback career choice or a second-best alternative to university, skilled trades are actually the first choice for many people entering the job market. Trades jobs typically pay well and offer advancement opportunities and the potential for starting your own business later in your career. Best of all, most trade apprenticeships pay a competitive salary during training, which can make it much easier for you to manage the expenses incurred during your educational period. The financial benefits of a career in skilled trades can be a powerful incentive to explore your options in this sector of the job market.

Trades careers allow you to make a real difference in the lives of others. By providing necessary services to maintain reliable power, to transport supplies, to repair key systems and to restore comfortable conditions indoors, you can enjoy satisfying work that is consistently in demand throughout British Columbia. If you enjoy practical, hands-on projects that can benefit those around you, a career in skilled trades could be the perfect fit.

One common misconception about skilled trades is that they are for those who did not enjoy academic success in school. In fact, many skilled trades apprenticeships are as demanding and academically rigorous as equivalent four-year degrees. Math and communications skills are among the most common abilities required for success in trades in BC. Other important traits for aspiring tradespeople include the following:

Dismissing skilled trades as less intellectually demanding than careers requiring undergraduate credentials is a mistake that could cost you a financially rewarding and challenging career with plenty of room for upward mobility in the future.

The idea of trades jobs as low-tech and low-information is outdated and obsolete. Today, tradespeople use the most advanced technologies for diagnostics, communications and repair processes. Many professionals in the trades use high-tech tools to understand and diagnose issues with major systems. A career in skilled trades will require knowledge of these advanced technological tools to ensure the best results for your clients and customers.

Skilled trades may once have been dominated by men. Today, however, women are welcomed in trade apprenticeships and training programs across Canada. BC apprenticeships are available to individuals regardless of their gender. This commitment to inclusion and diversity in trades allows women to pursue their dreams of a career in skilled trades with less worry about barriers and glass ceilings blocking their path to success. If you are interested in pursuing a trade apprenticeship, you can qualify for these training programs no matter your gender.

Many people enter skilled trades with the goal of eventually opening their own business and becoming their own boss. The skills and knowledge you earn through BC apprenticeships can prepare you for the challenges of starting your own service business. Many tradespeople progress from apprenticeship to employment and then to entrepreneurial enterprises. This can represent significant upward mobility and advancement potential for those pursuing trades in BC.

The financial rewards of trades jobs can also play a role in allowing you to accumulate the necessary funding and tools to launch your new business. Since trades positions pay significantly more than minimum wage in Canada, you can get the best possible start on saving for your own business in British Columbia.

As misconceptions about trades careers fade, the essential role of tradespeople in maintaining infrastructure and keeping things running smoothly has been recognized by most in the business world and the wider community. Choosing a career in skilled trades can allow you to enjoy the respect of your peers as a valued member of a team or as an independent entrepreneur and owner of your own business.

Participating in trades organizations and local small business associations can help you achieve a higher profile among prospective employers and customers. Your contributions to these organizations can pay off in improved reputation for your company and can allow you to connect with others in your profession or those in small businesses across your service area.

If you are thinking about a career in skilled trades, learning more about your available job options and educational opportunities can ensure that you make the best decision for your future. Trades Training BC is a great place to start looking for trade apprenticeships and training programs for a wide range of trades. We offer apprenticeship, foundation and technical training, refresher course and Red Seal endorsement programs to help you make the most practical and financially rewarding choices for your career.