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 Our Programs
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 what we do and how training and education can change individuals, families, and communities by supporting them to create successful futures. We acknowledge the importance of the future prosperity and well-being of our community.
We have friendly and qualified staff who 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:
When: November 14, 2022 – February 24, 2023 (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: 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 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: January 30th, 2023 - June 2nd, 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: April 17th, 2023 - August 18th, 2023
Where: In person at Training & Trades Centre
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.
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
© Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw 2022
Manager: Milissa Lewis
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 staffwill 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: Copy of applicants ID, front and back 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 – the deadlines vary according to each program so please ensure you adhere to these timelines. Please ensure that all information is an accurate reflection of your current circumstances and that you have fully completed your forms as this can cause delays in your application.
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. Incomplete applications will cause delays and may result in missing the required deadlines. Late applications may be considered if the application is completed, if the class is not at full capacity and if funds are available after processing the applications completed within the deadline. Applications do not roll over into the next fiscal year or into the next scheduled program. Any application that misrepresents the student’s circumstances.
FAQ's
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When: April 24th,2023 - December 15th, 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: September 4th, 2023 - April 7th, 2024
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.
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
Nathaniel Kirk
Senior Program Officer
Vanessa Lewis
Team Leader
"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
Jeff Theriault
Chenoa
Our Success Stories
"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."
"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."
Course(s):
Electrical Foundatons 2022
Willie Lewis
Lynn Michels
Justin Percival-Morven
Course(s):
Electrical Foundations 2021
Course(s):
Carpentry Level 2 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!"
"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
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.
