KAMLOOPS, BC – Thompson Rivers University (TRU) will introduce a new apprenticeship training program in the new year, to help meet the need for skilled trades in BC’s booming construction industry.
The TRU School of Trades and Technology will offer a six-week Glazier Apprenticeship – Module A training program, beginning in February, as the direct result of the leadership and support of a local business leader in the field.
“TRU has a long history in the trades and today we are regarded as offering some of the premiere trades programs in the country,” said Dr. Mark Evered, Vice-President and Provost at TRU. “Our industry partners informed us of the high demand for Glaziers, and consistent with our commitment to be as responsive as we can to industry needs, we found a way to meet that demand.”
Frank Luciani, President of Inland Glass and Aluminum Ltd, and chair of the Trade Training Committee for the Glazing Contractors Association of BC (GCA-BC) first approached the Dean of Trades and Technology at TRU, Ralph Finch, about the viability of the glazier program at the university.
Ralph Finch,
Dean Trades and Technology &
Frank Luciani,
Chair Trade Training Committee,
GCA-BC
“That’s what is so exciting about this glazier program, not only is it driven by the needs of the industry,” Finch said. “But, being able to deliver the program within a year of the beginning of the consultation process demonstrates just how responsive and flexible TRU’s School of Trades and Technology is.”
“We are pleased that TRU is participating in the new modular training program for the training of students to enter the Architectural Aluminum and Glass and Glazing field of work,” said Luciani on behalf of the CGA-BC.
“Through TRU, it’s the first time students in the interior of B.C. will have the opportunity to obtain this training and we look forward to a lengthy relationship with the university.”
Luciani is the owner of Inland Glass and Aluminum Ltd., a recognized leader in the industry, employing approximately 85 people in Kamloops and responsible for some of largest commercial glass installations in the country and abroad.
In addition to being a first for TRU, in terms of the program, this also marks the first time that the new Industrial Training Authority (ITA) educational extension model will be implemented at TRU. The model allows participants to enter a Modular “A” trade entry program directly from school or other backgrounds and with six weeks of training be able to find a job in the aluminum and glass industry and to quickly specialize in the residential or commercial glass field of their choice.
Applications are now being accepted for Glazier Module A, the first of seven modules required for certification as a journeyperson Glazier certified with the Glazer Contractors Association of BC. There are already 11 students confirmed for the February intake, and a second class is scheduled to begin March 17.
Glaziers are responsible for the layout, preparation, fabrication, installation and sealing of all architectural metal that make up the building envelope. Glaziers also fabricate and install custom interior and exterior designs for residential and commercial buildings as well as the glass components for automotive and marine applications.
For more information please contact Peter Poeschek, Construction Trades Chairperson, Ph: 828-5113
Frank Luciani, Chair, Trade Training Committee, Glazing Contractors Association of BC, P: 374-7306
