b'INDUSTRY UPDATERCABC CREATES VALUE BY INVESTING IN TRAINING BRYAN WALLNERINFRASTRUCTUREChief Executive Officer, RCABC I nB.C.andacrossCanada,theRoofingable on-the-job experience while also receiving class-ContractorsAssociationofBritishColumbiaroominstruction.Thiscombinationofpractical (RCABC)standsoutforitscommitmenttoand theoretical training helps apprentices to develop excellence. One of the cornerstones of this commit- their understanding of the trade. Once completed, mentisourrecognitionastheSkilledTradesBCapprentices are well-equipped to advance in their Designated Trainer for Roofer and the Architecturalcareers. Our social media posts over the past two SheetMetalprograms.Theseprogramsarenotyears have featured success stories of apprentices justaboutteachingskills;theyreaboutshapingwho became journeymen, supervisors, manufacturer theroofingindustrysfuture.RecentlyRCABCreps, observers and owners of roofing businesses.approved a $1.4-million expansion to our indus- Theroofingindustryisconstantlychanging, try-leadingtrainingfacilityinLangley,B.C.Thiswithnewmaterials,technologiesandtechniques decision is more than an investment in infrastruc- being developed all the time. RCABC instructors are ture; it represents an investment in the B.C. roofingticketed journeypersons who bring their real-world industry by RCABC members.experience to the classroom. They complete the B.C. Likeallofconstruction,theroofingindustryProvincial Diploma Program to learn effective tools facesasignificantskillsgap.Beforeexperiencedand strategies to deliver the apprenticeship mate-roofers retire, there is an urgent need to train newrial. Training is more important than ever to help skilledworkerstotaketheirplace.TheRCABCapprentices stay up to date with the latest advance-ApprenticeshipProgramaddressesthisgapbyments in the field. This focus on innovation helps providing comprehensive training covering theoret- to ensure that the industry remains nimble and can ical and practical knowledge. The investment in ourmeet the changing needs of our roofing contractors. facility has allowed us to work with SkilledTradesBC tooffermoreclassesateachleveltoaccelerateBUILDING A STRONG COMMUNITYtraining opportunities in the industry. ApprenticesWhat happens at the RCABC Training Facility is learneverythingfromthebasicsofroofingtospecial. Each day the parking lot fills up by 7:30 a.m. advancedtechniques,aswellasfallprotectionas all levels of roofer and ASM apprentices prepare and the National Torch Safety Program, ensuringfor the day. Classes of 16 apprentices foster a sense theyarewell-preparedtomeetthedemandsofof community among apprentices, instructors and the industry. industryprofessionalswhoaddresstheclasses as Quality and safety are paramount in the roofingspecialguests.Apprenticeshavetheopportunity industry.Poorworkmanshipcanleadtoleaks,tonetworkwithexperiencedroofers,learnfrom structural damage and safety hazards. The RCABCtheir mentors and build relationships that can last Apprenticeship Training Program emphasizes thea lifetime. This sense of community helps to create importance of doing the job right the first time.asupportiveenvironmentwhereapprenticescan Apprentices are trained to adhere to the highestthriveandgrow.Italsohelpstostrengthenthe standardsofqualityandsafety,whichhelpstoroofing industry, as knowledge and best practices are prevent accidents and ensures that roofs are builtshared and passed from level to level.to last. This focus on quality and safety protectsThe RCABC Apprenticeship Program is more workers and provides peace of mind to buildingthan just a training program; its a vital part of the owners and managers.roofing industrys future. The experience apprentices have while training plays a crucial role in shaping the SUPPORTING CAREER DEVELOPMENT next generation of roofers. For anyone considering TheRCABCEducationalFoundationexistsacareerinroofing,theRCABCApprenticeship tosupportlong-termcareerdevelopment.Program offers a pathway to success and a bright Apprentices can earn while they learn, gaining valu- future in a rewarding and essential trade. 8 lROOFINGBClFALL 2024'