Individuals looking to enter the electrical trades have likely heard about the Workplace Alternative Trades Training program, more commonly referred to as WATT. The WATT program is the result of a collaboration between the Western Joint Electrical Training Society (Western JETS), IBEW Locals 230, 993 and 1003, and the Construction Foundation of British Columbia (CFBC).
Western JETS and the IBEW identified a need for accessible applied electrical skills training that would lead to employment and created the intensive, three-week program to meet these needs. Youth, Women, Indigenous, and Newcomers are encouraged to apply for the WATT program.
The free, pre-apprenticeship program has been preparing participants for a meaningful career in electrical for years and is continuing to see success stories arise from several graduates following their successful completion of the program.
“After bouncing around retail and cooking, I wanted a more meaningful career path and I enjoy working with my hands,” said WATT graduate Eric. “My stepdad is an electrician in the Royal Canadian Navy, and I got to see a little bit of what he does, he enjoys what he does and it pays well.”
Following his decision to pursue a career in electrical, Eric applied for WATT. He was accepted and successfully completed the intensive, three-week program. In addition to receiving weeks of hands-on electrical experience, Eric exited the program with many certifications, tools, steel-toe boots, and additional support from WATT staff.
“[WATT] was a really good experience,” added Eric. “It was a good door that opened for me and set me on a really good path. I enjoyed it and I enjoyed the people that I was in it with.”
Eric is now preparing to hit the books for the first time as an electrical apprentice. In-class trades training is a required component for electrical apprentices en route to Red Seal certification.
“It has been good since completing WATT,” said Eric. “I’m about to enter my first year of schooling in two weeks. I’ve got all my textbooks!”
With the successful completion of the WATT program in the past and his electrical career in full motion, Eric provided insight for anyone interested in following a similar path into the trades.
“Electrical is a very good path to go down if you enjoy working with your hands and can focus on your career path,” concluded Eric. “Once you can get your ticket, the possibilities are endless.”
For more information on Workplace Alternative Trades Training, please visit the CFBC’s website at www.constructionfoundation.ca/watt
