Record Number of Apprentices Participated in Skilled Trades in B.C. Last Year

December 18, 2023

Skilled Trades BC, the organization that oversees the skilled trades in B.C., released its annual reporting of B.C.’s trades training highlighting a record number of apprentices, youth, Indigenous people and women participating in the skilled trades in the province in 2022/2023 fiscal year.  

More than 41,000 registered apprentices in over 100 trades worked towards certification to help fill the 83,000 additional jobs anticipated in the skilled trades in the next decade. 

“We are in a critical time to diversify and grow the skilled trades workforce in B.C. as we face a skilled labour shortage and anticipate 83,000 jobs in skilled trades over the next decade,” said Shelley Gray, CEO, SkilledTradesBC. “There is a place for everyone in skilled trades and we are excited to see a record number of diverse British Columbians exploring skilled trades as a means to support their families, build a successful career, and contribute to the communities that make this province our home.”  

Highlights of the results released in SkilledTradesBC’s annual report include:  

  • 41,000 apprentices (+8%) 
  • 1,492 Indigenous people entering skilled trades (+ 22%) 
  • 1,072 women entering skilled trades (+ 37%) 
  • 10,018 youth participation in skilled trades enrollment (+14%) 

Skilled Trades BC continues to prioritize growing in these areas as demonstrated in its recently released strategic plan which includes a focus on shifting the perception of the trades, diversity and meaningful reconciliation. The organization is also leading the implementation of Skilled Trades Certification, helping ensure that trades training and certification is valued and the skills of tradespeople are formally recognized. 

Go HERE to download the report.

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • E.B. Horsman & Son Announces Maxim Laberge as New Process Instrumentation Manager

    E.B. Horsman & Son Announces Maxim Laberge as New Process Instrumentation Manager

    EB Horsman is excited to welcome Maxim Laberge as its new Process Instrumentation Manager. Maxim brings over 25 years of experience in electrical, instrumentation, and control systems, with a proven record in business development, client engagement, and strategic project leadership. He is known for his consultative approach, combining technical insight with a strong focus on… Read More…

  • E.B. Horsman & Son Announces Stephen Murray as New Calgary Branch Manager

    E.B. Horsman & Son Announces Stephen Murray as New Calgary Branch Manager

    EB Horsman & Son is pleased to announce the appointment of Stephen Murray as Branch Manager of its Calgary location, effective Tuesday, September 3, 2025. Stephen brings over two decades of experience in the industrial automation sector, where he has built a strong reputation for driving growth, expanding market presence, and developing high-performing teams. His… Read More…


Peers & Profiles