Electrical power line and cable workers

Certification is not currently required to work as an electrical power line and cable worker in B.C. The B.C. government is introducing skilled trades certification beginning with a total of 10 trades, including powerline technicians. Certification will be implemented in phases between 2022 and 2024. Learn more about skilled trades certification.

Currently, workers without certification need at least four years of related work experience plus coursework in electrical technology. They also usually need to have completed secondary school. Workers who wish to be certified must complete a four-year apprenticeship program.

Apprenticeship programs

Work experience and in-class instruction are part of apprenticeship programs. Some part-time and online programs may be available. To apprentice, workers must be sponsored by an employer. A person who successfully completes an apprenticeship program and the final certification exam earns a Certificate of Qualification. Workers with significant experience in the trade, including at least 500 hours of “live line” work, may be able to challenge the certification exam in order to earn the Certificate of Qualification without completing a formal apprenticeship. For more information on earning a Certificate of Qualification, visit SkilledTradesBC.

To work in other provinces

Powerline technicians may need Red Seal certification to work in other provinces. This can be earned by passing an exam and proving significant work experience.

Workers coming to B.C.

Powerline technicians who are certified by a regulator elsewhere in Canada can apply for the same certification from the regulator in B.C. Under the terms of the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA), most applicants who are transferring their credentials from elsewhere in Canada will not be required to complete additional training or testing. However, the B.C. regulator may ask applicants to provide further information such as a letter of good standing, references or a criminal record check.

Workers who trained outside of Canada 

Powerline technicians who trained outside of Canada and have never received certification from a Canadian jurisdiction will likely need a full assessment. Most occupational regulators have a process for assessment and recognize internationally trained applicants. Contact SkilledTradesBC for details on how to apply for certification in B.C.

For information about labour mobility in Canada, visit www.workersmobility.ca.

View a list of Professional Regulatory Authorities in B.C.

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The demand for electrical power keeps rising as society adopts new technologies. And, with an expected wave of workers approaching retirement, this trade is in high demand.

Although certification is not currently required in B.C., workers with certification will likely have more job opportunities. The B.C. government is introducing mandatory skilled trades certification beginning with 10 trades, including powerline technicians. Certification will be carried out in phases between 2022 and 2024.