Strategic Initiatives

Over the next three years, the Industry Training Authority (ITA) will be pursuing new strategic initiatives in two core business areas:

1) Improving Standards and Credentials

Vision for the future: A broad range of trade credentials recognizing skills gained through both apprentice and non-apprentice learning pathways that are accessible and valued by industry, employers and individuals.

GOAL ACTION/INITIATIVE
Expand the value of standards and credentials to additional occupations and industries. Pilot the expansion of skills standards and credentials to include non apprenticeship occupations. Pilot the expansion of skills standards and credentials to include non apprenticeship occupations.
Enhance the value, recognition and demand for standard credentials. Build and promote a strong credential brand.
Enhance the rigour and effectiveness of how we conduct assessments and recognize skills against standards set by industry. Strengthen assessment methodologies to include methods beyond the multiple choice exam.
Strengthen the national Red Seal standards to benefit both B.C.’s highest volume trades and industry. Work with federal, provincial and territorial colleagues to enhance the way Red Seal standards are documented and assessed.

2) Improving the Apprenticeship Training Process

Vision for the future: An apprenticeship learning pathway that blends and balances the strengths of apprenticeship’s traditions with the competitive needs of industry in a modern economy.

Strengthen the alignment between employers and apprenticeship programs to improve apprenticeship success rates. Re-define apprentice sponsorship to require all apprentices to hold employment in their trade.
Re-align pre-apprenticeship programs to lead more directly into apprenticeship.
Proactively identify and mitigate training issues to improve quality and increase the success of apprentices. Introduce standardized level exams.
Improve apprenticeship access for groups facing barriers and challenges. Support Labour market Agreement programs for eligible women, new immigrants and Aboriginal people.
GOAL ACTION/INITIATIVE

For more information on our Strategic Initiatives, please email us.