August 29, 2016 – Ninety-six training seats for electric utility arborists in Langley, B.C. are now available thanks to a recent investment of $182,000 from the province through the Industry Training Authority (ITA).

These funds are slated for the Electrical Industry Training Institute and are part of a larger sum of $660,000 to go to three training providers for 464 training seats in “high-priority trades” through to March 31, 2017.

“A certified utility arborist’s job consists of vegetation removal at heights and within close proximity of energized electrical equipment, structures and conductors,” says Kerry Van Sickle, director of the Electrical Industry Training Institute. “The B.C. government’s contribution helps provide students with hands-on practical training using the same specialized vehicles, rigging equipment and climbing systems they will be required to use on the job.”

The Roofing Contractors Association of B.C. is also receiving $401,000 for 320 seats in roofer, architectural sheet metal worker and residential steep roofer and the Fenestration Education Society of B.C. will see $77,000 for 48 glazier seats.

The funding is part of the ITA’s allocation to B.C. post-secondary institutions and training providers.

The ITA says it leads and coordinates British Columbia’s skilled trades system by working with employers, employees, industry, labour, training providers and government to issue credentials, manage apprenticeships, set program standards and increase opportunities in the trades.