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Overview

This eight-month Entry Level Trades Training (ELTT) program requires on-the-job training for successful completion and will be offered in conjunction with the Nanaimo Home Builders Association (CHBA-CVI). Applications are accepted at any time.

The program base of topics cover the level 1 carpentry apprenticeship technical training and its major focus is to better prepare students for employment as carpentry apprentices in the building industry.

Strong ties with the Canadian Home Builders Association-Nanaimo, City of Nanaimo building officials, and many other builders, sub-trades and suppliers, have helped create a close cooperative training partnership with Nanaimo's local building industry.

This full time program is built upon the program outline developed collaboratively by industry and VIU, and follows the BC Provincial Apprenticeship Level 1 program competencies. The program focuses on basic carpentry skills and framing. The curriculum seeks an effective balance between hands-on learning activities supported with specific academic and theoretical frameworks.

The program framework includes:

  • Residential Construction Career Exploration
  • Construction Math
  • Safe Work Practices
  • Drawings and Specifications
  • Materials Identification
  • Hand Tools
  • Portable Power Tools
  • Stationary Tools
  • Survey Instruments
  • Concrete Form Work
  • Residential House Framing
  • Windows and Doors
  • Residential Building Renovations
  • Building Science
  • Shop Skills
  • Work Experience

Equipment Required

  • Textbooks
  • Classroom supplies
  • Hardhat
  • Steel-toed boots
  • Safety glasses
  • Rain gear
  • Carpenter's apron
  • Hammer (20-22 oz.)
  • 25 foot measuring tape
  • Combination square / Speed Square
  • Chalk line
  • Utility knife
  • Nail puller

Note: It is recommended that you wait to purchase any items listed above until after a lecture and demonstration in the beginning of the program.

Costs

Tuition (including Student Society & Activity fees)

Textbooks and classroom supplies approximately $540.00

Tools, Rain gear and safety equipment approximately $500.00

(All fees are subject to change without prior notice.)

Career Options

This unique, high profile, hands on, information packed training program has been well recognized by the building industry as an excellent introduction to the residential and commercial building industries.

Graduates from this program have been successful in procuring employment in positions such as apprentice carpenters, concrete formers, wood framers, finishing carpenter's helpers, cabinet installers, and home renovators. Graduates have also found employment with many other related building industry employers.

Excellent opportunities exist for graduates of this program to obtain carpentry apprenticeships with Professional Building Contractors or a Carpenters Union.

After completing this program and acquiring apprentice sponsorship with an industry professional, graduates can then apply to their local Apprenticeship contact for credit towards the first year's (six week) technical training and six months practical time. This will be part of the education required in completing a four-year Interprovincial Journeyperson Carpenter certification.

The technical training that is required to complete a four-year Carpentry Apprenticeship is also available at Vancouver Island University. Contact your local Apprenticeship office for further information.