Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, there are mentorship programs for immigrants that provide guidance, networking opportunities, and support as they pursue careers in various trades. Examples of mentorship programs for immigrants in the trades include the British Columbia Construction Association's Integrating Newcomers Program, SkillPlan’s Mentorship Program, Immigrant Employment Council of British Columbia (IEC-BC) Mentorship Programs, Immigrant Services Society of British Columbia (ISS of BC) Mentorship Programs, and the WorkBC Mentorship Program.

Getting your foreign credentials recognized involves several steps to ensure that your skills and qualifications meet the standards required for employment in your chosen trade. In order to have your foreign credentials recognized in BC, you may need to take some of the following actions: 

• Research your trade 
• Contact SkilledTradesBC to assess your foreign credentials 
• Upgrade training if necessary 
• Verify work experience through SkilledTradesBC 
• Enroll in apprenticeship programs 
• Apply for licensing and certification 
• Stay informed about continuing education and professional development opportunities 
• Seek guidance and support from career counsellors, immigrant settlement agencies, and industry associations

There are a number of community organizations in BC that provide various services and resources aimed at helping newcomers navigate the job market, acquire necessary skills, and connect with potential employers in the construction industry. Some of these resources and organizations include the Immigrant Services Society of BC, S.U.C.C.E.S.S., MOSAIC, and local WorkBC centres.

Canadian credentials or certifications may be required to legally work in certain trades, though this depends on the specific occupation and the requirements set by SkilledTradesBC or employers. However, there are also pathways available that recognize skills and credentials acquired outside Canada. SkilledTradesBC offers the Trades Certification program for various trades based on an individual's skills, knowledge, and work experience, regardless of whether they obtained their training in Canada or abroad. Immigrants with relevant trade experience can apply for trades certification through SkilledTradesBC’s Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition process, which assesses their qualifications and determines if they meet the standards for certification in BC.

Depending on your skills, qualifications and interests, there are a range of jobs in the road maintenance and construction sector, as well as related trades. Some of the most common jobs include Heavy Equipment Operator, Construction Labourer, Carpenter, Electrician, Plumber, Welder, Construction Project Manager, Road Maintenance Worker, Traffic Control Person and Surveyor.

On-the-job training opportunities vary from company to company, though anyone interested in one of these roles will need a minimum level of training to be hired. The Careers Directory webpage provides information to help you learn more about each company and decide which ones may be the best fit.

Programs offered by educational institutions vary, with some certificate programs taking approximately four months to complete.

The Resources page includes information on trade programs offered by educational institutions.

The Careers Directory webpage provides a list of companies that are hiring for job opportunities that match the roles promoted by the RoadShow. You can learn more about these companies and their work, and visit their Careers pages to see current job openings.

More than 300 companies are members of the BCRB&HCA and represent the maintenance, construction and service supply sectors. A wide range of companies have job opportunities that match the roles promoted by the RoadShow. Learn more about these companies, their work and career opportunities on the Careers Directory webpage.