Trades and Apprenticeship
The tools for your future are here
Okanagan College offers the newest equipment and technologies in state-of-the-art training facilities located in Kelowna, Vernon, Salmon Arm, and Penticton. Students master skills taught by industry-leading instructors while gaining hands-on experience. Learn in small classes, in more than 20 different programs that have provincial, national and international recognition. Whether you are seeking Red Seal certification or one-time specialty industry training, education at OC sets you up for a successful career.
Trades Talk Tuesdays
Learn about Okanagan College trades programs and find out about admission requirements and employment outcomes during a series of virtual presentations.
Foundation vs apprenticeship: what's the difference?
Foundation programs are entry-level training programs for people with little or no experience in the field. Apprenticeships are for people working in the trade for an employer who sponsors their education and training.
Explore our departments
Aerospace
Local, national, and global employment opportunities are soaring for certified Aircraft Maintenance professionals
Collision Repair
Focus on attention to detail and the importance of high-quality repairs while learning from Red Seal-certified instructors and the latest equipment.
Carpentry
Training in carpentry and joinery can help you develop skills to build a career you are proud of.
Culinary
Grow your culinary career in the heart of the Okanagan Valley with programs focusing on a farm-to-table approach, exploring fresh local products.
Electrical
Train to become an Electrician who inspects and tests highly sensitive electrical systems.
Motor Vehicle Trades
Drive the direction of your career with studies in Heavy Mechanical, Automotive Service and Recreation Vehicle Service programs.
Mechanical Building Trades
This department focuses on maintenance, testing and operation of all heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, the distribution of steam, water systems including fire prevention sprinklers, natural gas or propane systems and building plumbing systems.
Welding
Spark your skills by learning a variety of welding processes and using specialized equipment to create a solid bond between metal plate and/or pipe.
Women in Trades Training
Gain confidence to pursue career goals in trades through exploratory programs, sponsorship and additional support in a training centre with a reputation for excellence.
Prepare for training
COVID-19 has impacted trades program intakes. Click on "Read Trades FAQ" for a list of commonly asked questions from trades students to help prepare yourself for training.
Trades Continuing Studies
Expand your employment opportunities by advertising your skills with certificates.
Training at any age.
Starting in 2021, people of all ages will be able to participate in a few new programs designed specifically for kids, youth and adults. These weekend programs are perfect for any hobbyist or hands-on learner and are offered in our safe, state-of-the-art Trades Training Complex at the Kelowna campus.
Programs are offered in a variety of age groups: Trades Kids, Trades Explorers and Trades Adults.
Trades in the news
Featured Events
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Useful links
- Dean's Office contacts
- Need a prerequisite? Upgrade your education
- Explore funding with Financial Aid and Awards
- Get help with Student Success Centre
- Industry Training Authority B.C.
- Looking for employment training? Check out courses available through Continuing…
- Recommended Trades Student Characteristics
Visit
Come for a campus tour or become a student for a day.
Ask
Have your questions answered by an advisor or recruiter.
Apply
Take the next step and enrol in a program or course at OC.