VANCOUVER: BC Hydro is investing in the future of clean energy by recruiting the next generation of skilled electrical trade professionals through its paid apprenticeship programs. These programs offer hands-on training and career-building opportunities that prepare apprentices with the skills needed to build and maintain electrical infrastructure and restore electricity – especially during storm season, when reliable power is critical for communities across the province.
Every year, BC Hydro hires up to 80 apprentices across a mix of Red Seal and internal programs, helping build a skilled workforce to meet growing energy demands and the challenges of extreme weather events.
“At BC Hydro, we don’t just keep the lights on – we build futures,” says Charlotte Mitha, President and CEO of BC Hydro. “Our apprenticeships are more than jobs. They’re pathways to meaningful careers that power homes, hospitals, schools, businesses and communities, while shaping the future of energy in British Columbia.”
Apprenticeship opportunities at BC Hydro include:
- Power Cable Technician
- Electrician
- Interchange Plant Operator
- Mechanic
- Meter Technician
- Power Line Technician
- Pre-Apprentice Power Line Technician
- Utility Fleet Mechanic
- Vehicle Tradesperson (Automotive Refinishing Prep Technician)
- Winder
- Communications Protection and Control Technologist Trainee
Most apprentice programs at BC Hydro last about four years and combine classroom learning with real-world experience. After an initial four weeks of technical training, apprentices begin working in the field, alongside some of the most experienced journeypersons in the industry.
Apprentices are placed in the Lower Mainland and elsewhere across the province, offered a comprehensive benefits package and a competitive salary – starting at 75 per cent of the journeyperson rate, moving up to 85 per cent in year three, and 90 per cent in year four – earning up to $42.39 an hour depending on the trade. BC Hydro also continues to provide remuneration over the duration of the external Red Seal training at a local college, ensuring tradespeople can focus on learning without worrying about lost income.
In addition to robust training, BC Hydro also offers career advancement opportunities in a workplace focused on safety, sustainability, innovation, environmental stewardship, diversity and employment equity.
“Creating an inclusive and respectful workplace is not just the right thing to do – it’s an essential part of our success,” says Matt Wilson, Senior Vice-President, Safety at BC Hydro. “We action this in our apprenticeship hiring as well, with the intention our workforce reflect the diversity of the communities we serve.”
All on-the-job training is supervised by certified journeypersons. Upon completion of the apprenticeship, all tradespeople will receive graduation certificates from the Apprentice and Trades Training Committee, the IBEW Local Union 258 and a Certificate of Qualification with a Red Seal Endorsement from the Industry Training Authority.
The next intake for BC Hydro’s apprenticeship programs is expected to take place between October and January, depending on the trade. For more information on and other available opportunities, visit bchydro.com/work-with-us.
Contact:
BC Hydro Media Relations
e. media@bchydro.com
p. 604 928 6468