Utility Installation/Gradeperson Technician

Utility Installation/Gradeperson Technician Apprentice Program

What is it?

The Utility Installation/Gradeperson Technician Program consists of four (4) weeks of in-school training followed by work-based practical experience within the industry. Individuals completing both components of the program will receive a provincial Certificate of Qualification from the Industry Training Authority.

Why would I want to enroll in this program?

Although projections show moderate population growth for BC to the year 2031, BC will likely experience a declining population of 15-24 year olds between 2008-2022. The construction industry is already experiencing an aging workforce and a high degree of retirement. This will continue through the next decade.

Over the next 10 years, BC will experience moderate to severe shortages of Utility Installers and Gradepersons. With the introduction of major infrastructure projects like the Gateway Project, these numbers are likely to become even greater over the next several years. Utility crews will often have a number of differing employment classifications in the crew including, shoring labourers, top person, pipelayers and instrument persons. The average wages for this group usually will range between $20-$30 per hour.

This is the first apprentice program for Utility Installation/Gradeperson Technicians in BC and is one of the most progressive apprentice programs in Canada.

How is the program structured?

Several training facilities located around the province will offer the in-school training.

Week One through Four

Utility Installation – Core Theory Module

This module reviews important information regarding: safety working around heavy equipment, work planning, interpretations of grades and stakes, locates techniques, environmental protection, aggregates and drainage, and erosion control.

Utility systems including: water, sewer, hydro, tele-communications, oil, and gas.

Utility Installation – In School Practical

Covers the installation of basic underground structures including:

  • Sanitary Sewer and Storm Line/Drains
  • Water Main
  • Bed Piping and Services
  • Concrete Structures

All modules must be successfully completed to receive credit for the in-school requirement.

Work-Based Practical Industry Training

Once the apprentices have successfully completed the in-school modules, they will be required to achieve between 1,000-2,000 hours of logged utility installation time in the field; in addition, they must achieve the necessary competencies with the individual utility types.

Students not able to achieve certain competencies necessary for endorsement will be granted permission to seek those competencies through an Industry Training Authority approved training provider.

Apprentices who complete all required hours and competencies, signed off by an approved supervisor and/or training provider with sponsor attestation will be granted their Certificate of Qualification from the British Columbia Industry Training Authority.

Are there pre-requisites for the Utility Program?

Program Challenge Requirements

150% of documented endorsement hours of directly related work experience and sponsor attestation required to challenge the Provincial Certificate of Qualification examinations.

Challenge Not Available At This Time.

Interested? Need More Information?

Please email customerservice@itabc.ca.