This month marks eight years since Red Seal-certified carpenter and Apprenticeship Instructor Dave Lovisa joined the Construction Foundation of BC (CFBC). Based in Kelowna, Lovisa plays a pivotal role in mentoring aspiring tradespeople through CFBC’s Coast Capital Road to Red Seal program, helping them achieve the highest standard of excellence in the trades—the Red Seal certification.
Lovisa earned his Red Seal certification at just 23 years old and has since built a career spanning the residential, commercial, and industrial sectors across Canada. Now, with decades of experience under his belt, he is giving back to the next generation of tradespeople by providing mentorship, support, and guidance.
“The Road to Red Seal program offers many levels of support tailored to each apprentice’s unique needs,” Lovisa explains. “Whether it’s study habits, note-taking, active reading, accommodating learning disabilities, tutoring for specific topics, or math problem-solving, we have support.”
A Program Built on Individualized Support
The Road to Red Seal program continues to grow in size, scope, and success. Operating under a framework that emphasizes an individualized approach, the program offers:
- Development of study and learning strategies
- Exam-specific tutoring and preparation
- Assistance with math and technical topics
- General mentorship and guidance
- Mental health resources
Lovisa emphasizes the importance of building trust and confidence with each apprentice. “Learning about their past work and educational experiences allows us to create a tailored learning plan that addresses their needs,” he says. One of the program’s standout features is its 1-on-1 mentorship, which provides apprentices with personalized support throughout their journey—right up until they pass their Interprovincial (IP) Exam.
Even with the program’s resources, Lovisa reminds apprentices that success requires their commitment, effort, and sacrifices. “It’s a tough go, but it’s supposed to be,” he says. “It’s the highest standard. It’s the Red Seal certification.”
Making a Lasting Impact
Beyond the program’s success rates, Lovisa’s work has a profound impact on the lives of apprentices. By sharing his own experiences—including the challenges he faced in technical training and exam writing—he builds genuine connections with participants.
“To me, it’s very rewarding because I’m able to help apprentices over the finish line,” shares Lovisa. “I had my own difficulties back in the day, and navigating those struggles has helped me communicate with them at their level. It’s gratifying to receive their comments of appreciation.”
Lovisa’s mentorship is more than just teaching—it’s about passing along a lifetime of passion, knowledge, and skills to the next generation of tradespeople. Through his dedication and CFBC’s support, apprentices across the province are transforming their aspirations into achievements.
For more information on the work being done by the Construction Foundation of BC and to donate, please visit cfbc.ca.
