Vancouver Community College is adding new training programs aimed at preparing students for careers in some of British Columbia’s fastest-evolving technical fields.
The college announced this week that it is strengthening its commitment to clean energy workforce development through new and expanded programs in renewable energy, zero-emission vehicles, electrical infrastructure, refrigeration, building systems, and automotive technologies.
Designed in partnership with industry, the programs are intended to help graduates enter the workforce with skills that employers increasingly need as clean energy and sustainable technologies become more central to the economy.
“VCC is working closely with industry partners to ensure our training offerings reflect current and emerging workforce needs across residential, commercial, and renewable energy sectors,” said Ian Humphreys, Vice President, Administration and International Development at VCC.
VCC says the shift is being driven by rapid changes in the skills required across modern energy technology sectors. Research cited by the college indicates that by 2032, 40 percent of new jobs in trades, transport, and equipment will require enhanced clean energy skills as Canada prepares for a net-zero economy.
The new and expanded programs include an Automotive Electronics Repair certificate, Automotive Logistics and Service Operations – Zero Emissions diploma, Construction Electrician and Clean Energy diploma, Electric Vehicle Conversion microcredential, Wind Turbine Technician certificate, and Zero Emissions Vehicle Service and Technology microcredential.
VCC is also offering training pathways through its Construction Electrician Apprenticeship, Construction Electrician Foundation certificate, and Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic Foundation certificate.
Most of the programs are expected to begin in September 2026 or later, with intakes offered throughout the year.
The announcement comes as VCC continues work on its new Centre for Clean Energy and Automotive Innovation at the Broadway Campus. The $291.3-million facility, expected to be completed in 2027, will expand training capacity and support applied learning and research in high-demand clean energy and automotive fields.
For students, the new programs create additional pathways into trades and technical careers tied to sustainability. For employers, they represent a local talent pipeline at a time when clean energy skills are becoming more important across multiple sectors.
“Our new clean energy programs are designed to expand students’ career opportunities and strengthen B.C.’s workforce by preparing graduates with increasingly in-demand skills,” Humphreys said.