BCCA's Building Builders Program Surpasses 650 Mentorship Matches Ahead of Schedule

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The British Columbia Construction Association's mentorship initiative has successfully connected over 650 new workers and apprentices with industry professionals, achieving this milestone ahead of its 2027 target.

In a significant achievement for workforce development in the construction sector, the British Columbia Construction Association (BCCA) has successfully connected more than 650 new workers and apprentices with experienced professionals through its Building Builders Mentorship Program. This milestone was reached six months earlier than the initial target date of March 2027, as announced by Chris Atchison, the president and CEO of the BCCA. Atchison noted that the early success of the program reflects the high demand for skilled workers in British Columbia and the eagerness of seasoned professionals to share their knowledge with the next generation of construction talent.
The Building Builders initiative, funded by the Government of Canada’s Canadian Apprenticeship Strategy, is the only mentorship program dedicated to the construction industry across all of British Columbia. It has been operational for four years, facilitating connections between mentors and mentees in over 30 trades. Nearly half of the mentors involved in the program hold Red Seal certifications, while a significant portion of the mentees are actively pursuing apprenticeships.
Atchison emphasized the importance of this diverse expertise, stating, “This ensures a range of expertise and deep experience to train the next generation of tradespeople that the province needs.” The BCCA has shared several key statistics illustrating the program's impact: to date, 650 mentor-mentee matches have been made, with 314 mentees engaging in volunteer work experience, job shadowing, or site visits. Additionally, 423 mentees have registered for SiteReadyBC training, and 198 have either gained employment or received promotions during their participation in the Building Builders program.
Furthermore, the program has established a presence in 57 cities and towns throughout British Columbia, highlighting its extensive reach and engagement within the province. A total of 1,110 mentees and mentors have received information packages about the BCCA Builders Code, underscoring the program's commitment to fostering a culture of safety and professionalism in the construction industry.
As the demand for skilled labor continues to grow in British Columbia, the Building Builders Mentorship Program is proving to be a vital resource in bridging the gap between experienced workers and the new generation entering the field. The BCCA remains dedicated to connecting these individuals, ensuring that the construction industry in the province is well-equipped to meet future challenges and opportunities.

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