TRADES INITIATIVE PROGRAM
Championing trades and technology as a career choice for Canadians

Who is the Trades Initiative Program for?

Unemployed and under-employed individuals between the ages of 16 to 64. It is available to all Canadian citizens who are legally entitled to work in Canada and are receiving income assistance, have no income, or are receiving Employment Insurance benefits.

What is the objective of the program?

The  objective of the Trade Initiative program is to help  individuals achieve  employment in the trades. Whether it involves successfully completing  a trade foundation program or something as simple as  writing a trade resume, the Trade Initiative program may be for you.

I just need some information about a particular trade, can you help me?

If you require information or would like to use our self directed services, please stop into our office and we will be happy to find the information for you and answer your question.

What should I bring with me when I meet with a Trades Consultant?

Bring a copy of your most current  resume, all current certifications and tickets along with any Labor Market information you have about your  Career Goal. During the consultation your Trade Consultant may ask you to provide additional information about your employment goals. 

Can I work with the Trades Initiative Program while I am on income assistance or Employment Insurance?

Yes. Each persons needs will be assessed individually during the initial consultation regardless of the source of income.
 
Will CITAC find an apprenticeship for me?

No. Individuals are expected to find a suitable employer willing to sponsor them in their respective trade.Our resource center will be able to provide job postings but it is the responsibility of each indivdual to contact the employer. 

I have worked in the trades but I have not completed formal training. can you help me?

Yes. Our Trade Consultants will discuss the process required by the ITA with you and help prepare you to challenge a trade certification or level of a trade certification.

I am not sure what trade I should work in. Do you do any assessments for this?

For clients of the Trade Initiative  program, we deliver TOWES, CAAT and Career Decision Making Assessments. We recommend individuals review the Industry Training Authority website to learn more about the trades in BC at www.itabc.ca. before they meet with one of the Trade Consultants.  


 I don’t own a computer.  Is there somewhere I can search for Labour Market Information or look for jobs online?

Yes. Our resource centre has computers and staff to help you with your job search and Labor Market information about the trades.