WATT
Workplace Alternative Trades Training
Traditional pathways to apprenticeship are inaccessible to many, whether due to financial strain or prerequisite requirements. To meet unprecedented labour market demand, the IBEW, Western Jets Training Society (WJETS), and the Construction Foundation of BC came together and created WATT: a lower barrier, hands-on training program resulting in the ability to become an IBEW-sponsored apprentice and immediately enter into employment to get real experience as an electrical apprentice before starting level 1 of their technical training.
How It Works
The WATT program will give you the hands-on, employer-verified electrical training you need for a successful start to your career. Note: The program includes a 2.5 week part-time online safety and industry readiness module which is a pre-requisite for WATT eligibility.
The application process:
- All applications are received through WJETS’ online landing page www.WJETS.ca/watt. Applicants are pre-screened for program eligibility in reference to location and citizenship.
- Eligible candidates will be contacted within one week and scheduled to attend the next available practical assessment required to determine eligibility to move forward in the process.
- If you are asked to continue forward in the process, you will be scheduled to attend an “apprenticeship readiness” interview and to complete the 2-week part-time online safety and industry readiness ‘pre-WATT’ course.
- After successful completion of the ‘pre-WATT’ course, you will be invited to attend the 2.5 week, in-person WATT Training Program.
During your FREE WATT training you will:
- Be certified in:
- Occupational First Aid Level 1
- Fall Protection
- Mobile Elevated Work Platform
- SiteReadyBC
- Electrical Safety
- Lock Out/Tag Out
- Learn hands-on skills employers have identified as valuable on the work site.
- Be provided with an Independent Learning Plan (ILP) and support in Essential Skills upgrading throughout your pre-apprenticeship to help you prepare for your Level 1 training.
- Be provided with your basic tools and steel-toe boots required to start your career as an electrician.
- Have access to additional supports as required.
- Have basic living expenses and transportation covered if travelling for training.
After successfully completing WATT training you will:
- Be recommended for sponsorship by the Union into a registered apprenticeship.
- Be eligible for dispatch to a full-time paid work placement with an IBEW signatory electrical contractor.
- Be provided with ongoing mentorship and support.
More Information
For up to date information on WATT’s application process, visit the WATT Webpage
Partners, Funders & Donors
WATT is made possible by:
WATT’s initial funding was generously provided by the Government of Canada’s Skilled Trades Awareness and Readiness Program and aims to increase accessibility to electrical apprenticeships and reduce barriers for Youth, Women, Indigenous, and Newcomers to better support a skilled, inclusive, certified and productive electrical trades workforce by improving the efficiency and efficacy of pre-apprenticeship training provided.
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