Nexw7áỷstwaỷ
Education is an inherent right; it is lifelong and holistic. Education is central to our growth as a prosperous, healthy, and self-governing Nation.
Training and Trades Centre
About us
The Nexw7áỷstwaỷ Training and Trades Centre was established in 2004 and has been growing its trades and training programs since this time. We are passionate about providing training and education that can change individuals, families, and communities and create successful futures. We acknowledge the importance of prosperity and well-being for our community.
Our staff aim to create a welcoming environment where people feel valued and respected. We offer cultural workshops, wellness counselling and additional wrap-around services to support our students.
What programs are offered at Nexw7áỷstwaỷ Training and Trades Centre?
As Indigenous people continue to be underrepresented in the workforce, we continue to advocate for funding each year to help our students build a career in their chosen field of study. Programs are chosen to bridge the gap between community interests and industry needs. Over the past 5 years we have offered the following programs:
In partnership with Kwantlen Polytech University
Credential: N/A
Introduction to Carpentry is designed for students who have little or no experience in the carpentry trade. Students gain eight weeks of technical training with a Red Seal Carpenter! This program ladders directly into Carpentry Level 1.
Students will learn to:
- Use construction drawings and specifications
- Interpret building codes and bylaws
- Build and repair a vast array of structures made of wood, wood-substitutes and other materials.
In partnership with Capilano University
Credential: Certificate
The Business Administration Certificate (BAC) program teaches students essential business and management skills that can be applied to various roles and job environments. Creditst from the BAC certificate program can ladder into the Business Administration Diploma and/or the Bachelor of Business Administration.
In partnership with Langara College
Credential: Certificate
The Applied Project Management program is designed to provide participants with the essential skills and knowledge to be successful project managers in any industry for both small and large-scale projects. Students will learn to:
- Explore the underlying causes of project failure
- Apply practical tools, frameworks, and methodologies to achieve successful project outcomes
- Learn how to navigate key project challenges—such as timelines, budgets, scope, and risk
Credential: N/A
The Women in Trades program allows students to explore several different trades so they can find out what interests them.
The trades may change for each program but will include a combination of carpentry, plumbing, electrical, painting, scaffolding, steel stud framing, floor installation and more.
In partnership with Kwantlen Polytech University
Credential: SkilledTradesBC credit in Carpentry Level 1 apprenticeship
Carpentry Level 1 is the first step in gaining Red Seal Certification.
Students will learn to:
- Perform trade math
- Use portable and stationary power tools
- Use ladders, scaffolds and access equipment
- Build floor, wall and stair systems
- Use concrete types, materials, additives and treatments
- Place and finish concrete
At the end of the program students will write the Carpentry Level 1 exam. Students who successfully complete the exam are eligible for a SkilledTradesBC credit in Carpentry Level 1 apprenticeship and 450 work-based hours.
In partnership with International Union of Operators Engineer Local 115 Training Association
Credential: Following the 8 Week Machine Training, students will have exceeded the minimum seat time required to write the Skilled Trades BC Certificate of Qualification for HEO exam.
HEO technicians operate machinery such as excavators, backhoes, dozers and graders. These machines are used universally for all types of heavy construction, earth moving, road building, mining, forestry and more. The curriculum covers 4 weeks of foundational training followed by 8 weeks of machine training including:
- Wheel loader
- Articulated haul truck
- Dozer
- Backhoe
- Optional grade roller and compact skid steer machines
In partnership with Kwantlen Polytech University
Credential: SkilledTradesBC credit in Carpentry Level 2 apprenticeship
Carpentry Level 2 is designed for students who have completed a Level 1 program and their Level 1 apprenticeship hours. This program builds on previously learned skills and serves as the next step toward achieving Red Seal Certification.
Students will learn to:
- Use site layout equipment
- Describe roofing materials
- Build roof systems (gable & hip)
- Install doors, windows and their hardware
- Install exterior finishes
At the end of the program students will write the Carpentry Level 2 exam.
Meet the Leadership Team
Anita Wilson
Programs Team Lead
© Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw 2022
Phone: 604-980-7946
Email: tradescentre@squamish.net
Address: 3-1500 Railway St, North Vancouver, BC V7J 1B5
Subject to meeting the eligibility criteria and acceptance of your application, your Training and Trades program is free. Thank you to our funders and partners who have supported us in providing Training and Trades Programs to our Squamish Nation members and Indigenous individuals.
Interested participants simply contact our office by email or phone to schedule an appointment. Our friendly staff will respond to your inquiry within two working days and send an application package via email (if you do not have an email, an alternative solution will be provided). Once you receive your package, you can start the application online prior to the appointment or we can support you with your application form when you visit our office.Virtual appointments are also available. The application package includes: application form direct deposit form media release form Applicants will be responsible for ensuring that their application forms are complete, signed and received by the stipulated deadline.
A letter of acceptance will be sent upon approval of your application. If there is insufficient space in the chosen program, and if you are eligible, we will place you on a waiting list based on the date when your application was received. You will be notified immediately if a space becomes available.
There are a few reasons why you may not be accepted into a program: You do not meet the eligibility criteria Your application was iIncomplete which caused a delay that resulted in missing the deadline Your application misrepresented your current circumstances
FAQ's
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In partnership with UA Piping Industry College of BC
Credential: : Credit for Level 1 Apprenticeship in Plumbing, Steamfitting or Sprinklerfitting
The Piping Foundations training consists of learning the basics of three of the piping trades: Plumbing, Sprinkler fitting and Steam fitting. Tthis course is designed for individuals who are unsure of which trade they want to pursue and/or have little experience working on a job site or with tools. Midway through the program, students choose the trade they would like to pursue and write the final level exam in their trade of choice. Upon successful completion, students are awarded a certificate of completion and are given credit for completion of Level 1 apprenticeship in their chosen trade.
Credential: N/A
The Youth in Trades program is for anyone who is thinking of pursuing post-secondary education in the trades. The program allows students to explore several different trades so they can find out what interests them. The trades may change for each program but will include a combination of carpentry, plumbing, electrical, painting, scaffolding, steel stud framing, floor installation and more.
In partnership with Electrical Joint Training Committee (ELJTC)
Credential: Certificate and credit for Level 1 technical training in the Construction Electrician (Electrical) apprenticeship program
The EJTC Electrical Entry Level Trades Training provides a combination of electrical theory and practical electrician training to prepare individuals for apprenticeships within the electrical construction industry. Training topics include electrical theory and code. Foundations programs provide adults who do not have work experience noror employer sponsorship with an opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills needed to enter the occupation.
In partnership with Capilano University
Credential: Certificate
The Health Care Assistant program (HCAP) is an entry-level opportunity for individuals interested in joining the healthcare sector. In the program, you'll learn how to provide personal care to clients and residents in complex care, specialized dementia care, selected acute care settings and in the community. Graduates who successfully complete the program can become a Certified Health Care Assistant by registering with the BC Care Aide and Community Health Worker Registry.
In partnership with Bungalow 968
Credential:
The Leadership development program is designed for existing or emerging leaders looking to enhance their leadership skills. Students will gain the following skills:
- Discovering your leadership style using Clifton strengths
- Identifying values and purpose strategies for problem solving in the workplace
- Improved communication skills
- Ideas for motivating others
- Giving positive and negative feedback
- How to create accountability in the workplace
- Identifying conflict and resolution styles
- Leadership coaching skills and how to manage change
Credential: N/A
The Introduction to plumbing program prepares students to gain the foundational skills that are needed to succeed in the Piping Trades. Curriculum includes:
- Basic measuring
- Basic drafting
- Use of specialized power tools and hand tools
- Blueprint scaling
- Fastenings and fittings
Upon completion of this program, students can ladder into the Plumbing level 1 program and become an apprentice.
In partnership with Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Credential: Citation in Plumbing
The Plumbing Level 1 program prepares students for employment as a plumber apprentice. Students will develop the necessary skills including appropriate safety protocol, time management and using hand and power tools. Students will learn how to install, repair and maintain plumbing fixtures and systems including water, drainage and waste.
Jeff Theriault
"I recently graduated from the Electrical Foundations program at the Squamish Nation Training & Trades Centre. I was not very confident that I would do well in the program. I heard that electrical is very difficult when it comes to math.
With the guidance and support of my instructor, Kelly, I not only completed the program, but I excelled and graduated with a great mark.
I left high school in grade 10 and got myself into a lot of trouble over the years and faced many challenges. The TTC staff, instructors, and Kelly were the perfect medicine for me to begin a fresh start. I am very proud of what I have accomplished, and I am looking forward to a bright and healthy future."
Course(s):
Electrical Foundatons 2022
Chenoa
"I had a great experience with TTC and had a lot of fun.
The instructors and office did a great job of encouraging growth, offering support, and motivation.
Things like guest speakers, lunches, and the holiday party with the other programs helped us feel connected to fellow staff and students creating a sense of community within TTC. The additional support of tutoring, job readiness, and counselling, all helped tremendously with working through obstacles and preparing us for work. In addition, everyone was willing to work with or accommodate me as much as possible. I felt that I was set up to succeed. I am currently working at Kindred and halfway through my apprenticeship hours. I have been using various parts of my education from the program including framing, form work, reading drawings, and most importantly, safety. I look forward to going to work and I have gained a lot of confidence within myself."
Course(s):
Women in Trades 2021
Carpentry Level 1 2021
Our Success Stories
"I took the Electrical Foundations program at TTC.
I was always looking for something more in my career and being able to support my family. I'm having an absolute blast at work!
I did my 10-week work practicum with Mott Electric and then moved on to Delta Tec, which is an Indigenous owned and operated company. If you're looking to do more and earn more with your time and education, check out the Electrical Foundations program."
Willie Lewis
Course(s):
Electrical Foundations 2021
"I took my Carpentry Level 2 course with the Squamish Nation Training & Trades Centre. It was amazing! They helped us get safety tickets and we used them daily while working in the field.
TTC provided us
with anything we
needed to be
successful in the
program as well as
post-program.
I am now working in a
wood shop where I make
detailed wood working.
The possibilities are
endless!"
Course(s):
Carpentry Level 2 2021
Lynn Michels
"I recently completed the Plumbing Level 1 program and it has improved my life a lot. My instructor was awesome and the staff was very supportive.
There are so many
rewards for when you
get stuff done, so
that motivated me
more and more to
keep going.
There is no better place to
come to feel connected to
our culture than Squamish
Nation Training & Trades
Centre. I am really excited
to pursue a career in the
plumbing industry."
Course(s):
Carpentry Level 2 2021
Justin Percival-Morven
Toby To-Eagle Speaker
Operations Team Lead
Tannis Louie
Manager
Jolie Rochard
Wellness Counsellor
Bennie Graydon
Employment & Relations Specialist
Vanessa Lewis
Senior Manager
Meet Our Student Support
I have spent quite a few years working in trades, mostly in rebar. I had a bad accident several years ago that put an end to my rebar career. I have spent the last many years recovering from my injuries, and I am feeling and doing much better.
I am very happy that I signed up for the Woodworking program at the Squamish Nation Training & Trades Centre (SNTTC). This was referred to as a “Legacy” program as we all participated in making an indigenous project that would be used in ceremonies at the upcoming Invictus games. It was very cool. I learned to work on many pieces of equipment that I had never used, including the band saw, planer, circular saw, drill press and many others. We also worked with artist Shane Jackson who owns Spirit Works studio beside the SNTTC where we learned to bend wood and work with Shane’s Red Seal Cabinet Maker.
The SNTTC has been a great place to start back into trades. The staff are very supportive, the training allowance, food allowance, transit and supports all make the program that much more accessible. The instructors Terry and Wilf were excellent teachers and Shane, and his staff were also great. I will be joining the concrete forming training in February, and I look forward to the opportunity to join the WLNG.
Note from Instructor Terry Williams:
Ralph Williams was a dedicated and creative student in woodworking class, inspiring peers and instructors with his fresh ideas and artistic vision. His hard work and growth made him a standout, and I am confident he will achieve great success in the future.
Program: Woodworking
Meghan Rust
Ralph Williams
Success Stories
I worked in the restaurant business for approximately 15 years. I learned a lot and made some lifelong friendships, but I was ready to do something else. I have some friends who work in the trades, and they seem to enjoy it. I thought it could be an option, when I came across the WIT program. You get to try several trades in a short period of time. I liked all of them but decided to try carpentry for my work practicum at the Oakridge site working for Ellis Don. It was a very eye-opening experience, the crew was nice and taught me a lot over the two weeks I was there.
When the practicum was over, I went back to the SNTTC to take Carpentry Level 1. I found it quite difficult but hung in there and managed to pass. The SNTTC has many people there to assist and support you and that really helped. Their financial allowances were very useful as it’s very expensive to live in this city.
My second work practicum was with Graham Construction. I enjoyed this practicum and the whole team was awesome, but the site was almost finished so there was no job opportunity. I connected with Boston Sheet Metal about the Sen̓áḵw site as my friend Mariah was there. They hired me and I have been really enjoying it. Like my other classmates, I am not working in carpentry. I may get back into carpentry at some point but working with a great team is also really important to me.
Note from Sen̓áḵw Job Mentor Tijash Ruiz:
BSM is really enjoying having Meghan on the team, she is a hard worker and eager to learn.
I just recently finished high school and had thought of taking a carpentry/woodworking program. I saw an advertisement for the Carpentry Level 1 program at the SNTTC and signed up.
The program was challenging, especially the math and all the reading, but I was happy I got through it. I really enjoyed my time in the workshop and being with the rest of the students. I also enjoyed Terry and Wilf, the instructors, they were easy to get along with and very knowledgeable. The SNTTC staff are always available when you need them, and all the financial support really helps.
I ended up doing my work practicum at Senakw. Other than one other student, me and my classmates were some of the first students to do a work practicum there. That was pretty cool. It was a big job site to start in the trades world but having my classmates made it better. All the workers have been great and easy to get along with.
Senakw did not have any carpentry related jobs available, so I was offered to work with True Mechanical. I stayed with them and enjoyed it. I do plan to pursue carpentry at some point, but I am enjoying this oportunity. It’s awesome to be working on such a large indigenous project in the middle of Vancouver.
Note from Sen̓áḵw Job Mentor Tijash Ruiz:
He has heard excellent feedback on Lexi, “she is doing very well, hardworking and has lots of potential”.
Employer: Boston Sheet Metal
Programs: Women in Trades & Carpentry Level 1
Lexi Brown
George Gabriel
Brandon Sewell
Employer: True Mechanical
Programs: Carpentry Level 1
Employer: Coast Valley Contracting
Programs: Heavy Equipment Operator
I’ve been in the construction industry for over 25 years. I have experienced many trades but have always wanted to run heavy equipment. I had the opportunity to take the course with the Squamish Nation Training and Trades Centre and International Union of Operating Engineers.
The course was a great learning experience as I have run heavy equipment before but learned a lot from it. I did not take a practicum as I am currently doing civil construction on the ground but get the occasional seat time.
My future goal is to just keep working hard no matter what comes at me whether it is skilled labor or running heavy equipment. The teachers running the course are great guys. The people of SNTTC were a lot of help as well
The TAT program was amazing and gave a great overview on the basics of each trade covered. I looked forward to going every day, and there was great comradery between the participants. I would enjoy doing the program again if they focused further trades that we didn’t experience. The SNTTC has excellent staff, mentors, and amazing teachers, who all had relevant experience in the trade.
I did my two-week work practicum at the Senakw project with Ozz Electric. It was a good experience for me. It helped me navigate my way around a worksite and interact with the people there. I learned more about how I work best and the type of support I need as a beginning apprentice. The site also had an amazing view of almost all the North Shore and Vancouver.
The training gave me lots of insight into what a career in the trades would be like. I also found out about trades I’m not interested in doing as well which is important information in planning my future. My future goal is to get into sprinkler fitting and pursue that as a trade.
Programs: Try-a-Trade
Meet the Team
Milissa Lewis
Manager
Thea Copeman-Hayes
Program Officer
Jolie Rochard
Health & Wellness Counsellor
Bennie Graydon
Student Support Specialist
Carrie Findlay
Administrative Assistant
Vanessa Lewis
Team Leader
Nataniel Kirk
Senior Program Officer
When: November 14, 2022 – February 24, 2024 (13 weeks)
Where: In person at Training & Trades Centre
Who: In partnership with Kwantlen Polytech University
Credential: N/A
This program will deliver beginner level information to anyone who might want to pursue a career in the construction industry or is interested in learning the basics. Curriculum includes framing, carpentry, scaffolding and interior painting. From here, students can choose to specialize with an apprenticeship leading to a Red Seal certification.
When: January 4, 2023 – August 25, 2023
Where: In person at Training & Trades Centre
Who: In partnership with Capilano University
Credential: Certificate
The Business Administration program teaches students basic business skills that have practical value in a wide variety of jobs. Credit from the certificate program can ladder into the Business Administration Diploma and/or the Bachelor of Business Administration.
When: January 31, 2023 – April 16, 2024
Where: Online
Who: In partnership with Capilano University
Credential: Certificate
The Applied Project Management program is designed to provide participants with the essential skills and knowledge to be successful project managers in any industry and add value to both small and large-scale projects. Learn valuable, highly-practical, and transferable skills through this program. The PMP® credential requires education in the form of a high school diploma or degree, 35 hours of project management training, at least 36 months of project management experience, and an exam. Completing this course helps you meet these requirements.
When: February 20, 2023 – May 12, 2023
Where: In person at Training & Trades Centre
Who: UAPIC, EJTC, FTI, KPU
Credential: N/A
The Women in Trades program is an all women's try-a-trade. You will gain skills and training in six different trades. During the six weeks of technical training, you will learn everything needed to be prepared for entry level work in multiple trades.
When: Tentatively February 2023
Where: In person at Training & Trades Centre
Who: In partnership with Kwantlen Polytech University
Credential: ITA Certificate of Qualification
The Carpentry Level 1 program prepares students to build and repair a vast array of structures made of wood, wood-substitutes and other materials. Many work for construction companies, contractors and maintenance departments while others are self-employed. Carpenter is a nationally designated trade under the Inter-Provincial Red Seal program. Carpenters assemble and erect forms for concrete, wood and metal frame construction and use plans and instruments to prepare for excavating and shoring. On smaller projects, they direct concrete placement, and install exterior and interior finish materials such as siding, doors, windows and cabinets.
When: Tentatively May – September 2023
Where: TBD
Who: In partnership with International Union of Operators Engineer Local 115 Training Association
Credential: ITA Certificate of Qualification
Heavy Equipment Operator technicians operate heavy machinery such as heavy articulating rock trucks, loaders, excavators, backhoes, dozers and graders. These machines are used universally for all manner of heavy construction, including earth moving, road building, mining and forestry. Technicians may also be responsible for the basic maintenance of equipment, safety around equipment and the compliance of markers, grades and stakes.
The program's focus will be on further developing and applying practical skills to continue their apprenticeship pathway in preparation for writing their Interprovincial Red Seal Exam. In this level, apprentices will complete the learning objectives: Work Practices, Documentation and Organizational Skills, Tools and Equipment, Survey Instruments, Rigging and Hoisting Equipment, Perform Site Layout, and Build Concrete Formwork.
When: Tentatively April 2023
Where: In person at Training & Trades Centre
Who: In partnership with UA Piping Industry College of BC
Credential: ITA Certificate of Qualification
The Piping foundations training consists of learning the basics of three of the piping trades: Plumbing, Sprinkler fitting and Steam fitting. With a strong focus on safety and practical projects, this course is designed for individuals who are unsure of which trade they want to pursue and/or have little experience working on a job site or with tools. Midway through the program, students choose the trade they would like to pursue and write the final level exam in their trade of choice. Upon successful completion, students are awarded a certificate of completion and are given credit for completion of Level 1 apprenticeship in their chosen trade.
When: July – August 2023
Where: In person at Training & Trades Centre
Who: UAPIC, EJTC, FTI, KPU
Credential: N/A
The Youth into trades program is for anyone who is thinking of pursuing a career in trades for post-secondary or that would like to obtain employable skills and certifications.
When: July – August 2023
Where: In person at Training & Trades Centre
Who: In partnership with Electrical Joint Training Committee
Credential: ITA Certificate of Qualification
The EJTC Electrical Entry Level Trades Training (ELTT) provides a combination of electrical theory and practical electrician training to prepare individuals for apprenticeships within the electrical construction industry. Training topics include electrical theory and code. Foundations programs provide adults who do not have work experience nor employer sponsorship with an opportunity to gain the knowledge and skills needed to enter the occupation.
HCAP is a new entry-level opportunity for individuals interested in joining the healthcare sector. In the program, you'll learn how to provide personal care to clients and residents in complex care, specialized dementia care, selected acute care settings and in the community. Graduates who successfully complete the HCA program can become a Certified Health Care Assistant by registering with the BC Care Aide and Community Health Worker Registry. This program is transferable to Access to Practical Nursing Programs (LPN) within BC or Advanced HCA Programs such as: Acute Care, Mental Health, Palliative Care
In the leadership development program you will gain the following skills: discovering your leadership style using Clifton strengths, identifying values and purpose strategies for problem solving in the workplace, communication tools for leaders growing emotional intelligence, ideas for motivating others, giving positive and negative feedback, how to create accountability in the workplace Identifying conflict and resolution styles, leadership coaching skills and how to manage change.
The Introduction to plumbing program will prepare students to gain the foundational skills that are needed to succeed in the Piping Trades. Curriculum includes basic measuring, basic drafting, use of specialized power tools and hand tools, blueprint scaling, fastenings and fittings. Upon completion of this program, students can ladder into the Plumbing level 1 program and become an apprentice.
The Plumbing level 1 program prepares students for employment as a plumber apprentice. Students will develop the necessary habits concerning safety, time and materials management, hand tools and power tools. Practical projects are performed in a shop environment to enhance students' skills in installation, pipe repair and maintenance, fixtures and other plumbing equipment used for water distribution and wastewater disposal in residential, commercial and industrial buildings.
