OVERVIEW

The Residential Construction Foundations program introduces learners to the basic knowledge and skills needed for entry into the carpentry trade. The program is delivered in both a classroom and in-school shop setting, without the need to find an employment sponsorship to participate. Completing a foundation program helps learners gain experience and familiarity with a trade, making it easier for them to find an employer who will sponsor their apprenticeship, should learners choose to progress toward Red Seal Certification.

The Residential Construction Foundations curriculum is equivalent to a Level 1 apprenticeship program and provides credit towards the completion of Carpenter Level 1. Topics of study include construction safety, blueprint reading, building codes, framing systems, trades math, as well as the safe use of hand and power tools. Learners develop practical vocational skills in formwork, framing, and layout, as well as professional competencies in communication, hazard identification, and teamwork.

The program meets the needs of the residential construction industry by providing learners with the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to seek employment as apprentice carpenters, facilitated over the course of 24 weeks.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

• B.C. secondary school graduation or equivalent, or 19 years of age and out of secondary school for at least one year as of the first day of classes.
• One of: English 10, English 10 First Peoples, an equivalent Provincial Level Adult Basic Education English course, or equivalent assessment.
• Math requirement: Learners graduating from secondary school in or prior to 2012: Mathematics 10 or an equivalent Advanced Level Adult Basic Education Mathematics course, or an equivalent assessment. Learners entering Grade 10 in or after 2010 and/or completing the new mathematics curriculum: One of: Apprenticeship and Workplace Mathematics 10, Foundations of Mathematics 10 or, Pre-Calculus 10, or an equivalent Advanced Level Adult Basic Education Mathematics course or an equivalent assessment.

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

CAREER PATHWAYS

The Residential Construction Foundation can open up several career pathways for individuals interested in the construction industry. Here are some potential career paths and roles:

• Construction Laborer
• Carpenter
• HVAC Technician
• Building Inspector

PATHWAYS TO CERTIFICATION

In BC, an individual can become a certified carpenter by completing a SkilledTradesBC apprenticeship program or by challenging the certification.

• Apprenticeship programs – for individuals who have an employer to sponsor them
• Challenge programs – for individuals who have extensive experience working in the occupation and wish to challenge the certification.
• Foundation programs – provide adults and youth who do not have work experience or employer sponsorship with an opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills needed to enter the occupation.