Mar 29, 2024  
2022-2023 Academic Calendar 
    
2022-2023 Academic Calendar [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Learn more about Carpentry Foundation Harmonized Certificate


NIC’s 24-week Carpentry Foundation Harmonized Certificate is the standard provincial program for entry into the carpentry trade and is well-recognized by the residential and commercial building industries. During the program, you will develop the carpentry skills and knowledge needed for employment in the construction industry. 

The program follows the BC Provincial Apprenticeship Level 1 program competencies, while also providing significant time for practical hands-on skill development. 

Upon successful graduation, you will receive an NIC Carpentry Foundation Harmonized Certificate and, upon entering into an apprenticeship, you will be eligible to receive credit for Level 1 technical training and 450 hours of work based credit toward your apprenticeship hours requirement.

To Be Successful

  • You are encouraged to contact the instructor for an in-person or telephone interview. The purpose of the interview is to provide advice, answer questions about the program and discuss various career fields and choices.
  • The most important key to success is the desire to become a quality tradesperson. The traditional values of hard work, reliability, positive attitude and the desire to do quality work are essential to succeed in the program.
  • Trades programs require good hand-eye coordination, good binocular vision, strong abilities in spatial and mechanical reasoning along with good math and communication skills.
  • Many employers require Grade 12 completion as an employment standard. If you do not meet this requirement we encourage you to contact an educational advisor to discuss upgrading or Grade 12 completion options offered at NIC. In addition to the stated prerequisites secondary school equivalent courses in science, physics and drafting are considered an asset.
  • There is also an expectation of physical activities such as lifting, working on ladders and scaffolding or in confined spaces and under various weather conditions.
  • You will be required to stay focused for prolonged periods.
  • You can access math review resources from: https://www.nic.bc.ca/student-services/assessment-services/placement-assessments/math-placements/. Should you find you need further support please contact our student services department about upgrading classes.

Launch your career

Graduates of this program find employment as apprentice carpenters, in residential, commercial or industrial construction. Work may include concrete forming, framing, exterior finishing, interior finishing or home renovations.

Supply List

Personal Protection Equipment

  • Weather appropriate clothing
  • CSA-approved steel-toed safety boots
  • Safety glasses
  • Hard hat
  • Ear protection

Classroom Supplies

  • Sharp Electronic Calculator (# EL-520WBBK or EL-520XTB)
  • HB pencils
  • Hi-lite marker
  • Two 2” binders and note paper
  • Drafting Equipment: Available at the NIC bookstore:
    • Set square - 30/60/90 degree, Staedtler 964 10-60
    • Set square - 45/45/90 degree, Staedtler 964 14-45
    • Scale ruler, Imperial, Architects, Staedtler 987 18-31
    • Scale ruler, Metric, Staedtler 987 18-SI
    • Drawing compass, 559-09
    • Good quality white eraser
    • Non-mechanical pencils in: 6H, 4H, & 2H lead

Personal Tools - Do not purchase until after the 1st day of class

  • Tool belt
  • Tape measure 25’/8M (metric, imperial, or combo)
  • Chalk line
  • 2’ level - (optional)
  • Nail puller
  • Framing square (steel or aluminum) - (optional)
  • Cross cut handsaw (10 point) - (optional)
  • Utility knife & blades
  • Speed square
  • Framing hammer