Trades Sampler for Indigenous, Women and Non-Binary Learners
Curious about working in the trades?
Explore which trade might be the best fit for you. The Trades Sampler Program introduces you to a variety of skilled trades through a combination of classroom learning and hands-on learning on real job sites.
Eligibility
This cohort of Trades Sampler is open to Indigenous learners, and women and non-binary learners aged 19 years and up.
Dates
Our 2026 Trades Sampler cohort completed in June 2026. If you are interested in a future offering of the Trades Sample please contact Elyse Freeborn, email elyse.freeborn@viu.ca
Location
tišosəm (Tla’amin) and VIU tiwšɛmawtxʷ campus.
Free course!
This course is free to all enrolled students.
Learners are supported with a living allowance and personal protective equipment. Transportation to and from tišosəm is also provided.
The Trades Sampler is offered in partnership with Tla'amin Nation. Seats are filled first with Tla’amin community members. Remaining seats will be made available for non-Tla’amin Indigenous and women and non-binary learners.
We welcome applicants who are curious about exploring trades careers and who are open to learning in a respectful and supportive cohort environment. You do not have to have any background experience in trades, only an interest in exploring a career in trades.
Topics covered in the course will include
- automotive
- welding
- carpentry
- electrical
- plumbing
- roofing
- home maintenance
Students taking the course will gain certifications in
- Basic First Aid
- Fall Protection
- Confined Spaces
Interested in enrolling in the Trades Sampler?
If you are a Tla’amin community member, you can express your interest directly to Jessie Peters, email jessie.peters@tn-bc.ca