The Piping Trades Foundation Training Program encompasses the foundational technical training required to enter the Plumber and Steamfitter/Pipefitter trades. This training includes all the relevant technical training to simultaneously complete the Foundation and Level 1 Skilled Trades BC (STBC) learning outcomes for both trades.
Students who successfully complete this training will have satisfied the STBC requirements for their level 1 technical training in either trade. While enrolled in this program, students must complete a two-week (60 hour) work practicum placement, exposing them to the tasks and day-to-day functions of employees and apprentices in the trade. Students who complete the Piping Trades Foundation Program will receive credit for 375 work-based hours towards completion of either Plumbing Apprenticeship or Steamfitter/Pipefitter Apprenticeship, depending on their choice of trade.
The information on this program page is a summary of the official Program Information and Completion Guide approved by NLC’s Education Council, effective September 2026.
Career Prospects
Plumbers and steamfitters/pipefitters can find employment in residential, commercial, and industrial costruction in addition to maintenance departments of factories, plants and other similar establishments. They can also find work with pipefitting and sprinkler system contractors, or become self-employed in the industry.
Details
Intakes
| Location | Starting | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Dawson Creek | February 2027 | Cohort |
Length
540 hours; approximately 19 weeks long.
Estimated Program Fees
Program fee type: Trades/Apprenticeship (Tier 2)
Costs indicated are estimates for a full-time course load.
Book, instruments, supplies, uniforms/clothing and third-party fees are additional.
Domestic Fees
| Tuition | Student Fees | Instruction-related Fees | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $ 2,018.52 | $ 88.73 | $ 344.58 | $ 2,3451.83 |
International Fees
| Tuition | Student Fees | Instruction-related Fees | International Medical Insurance | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | $ 8,343 | $ 88.73 | $ 344.58 | $ 289.80* | $ 9,066.11 |
*Per four months
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Admission Requirements
Complete either A, B, or C:
A. English and Math
English Requirement
One of the following:
- BC Language Arts 10 Courses – 4 credits earned, minimum individual grade of C+, or equivalent.
- BC Language Arts 11 Courses – 4 credits earned, minimum individual grade of C+, or equivalent.
- BC Language Arts 12 Courses – 4 credits earned, minimum individual grade of C+, or equivalent.
- ENGL 030 or higher, with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent.
- IELTS score of 5.5 overall with no band less than 5.0 or equivalent English placement test and score.
Math Requirement
One of the following:
- BC Math 10 with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent
- BC Math 11 with a minimum final grade of C, or equivalent
- BC Math 12 with a minimum final grade of C, or equivalent
- MATH 030 or higher, with a minimum final grade of C+, or equivalent.
B. ESTR 037
Complete:
- ESTR 037 – Essential Skills for Trades – Intermediate Level with a minimum final grade of 67%.
C. POWER
Complete:
- People Obtaining Workplace Employment Requirements (POWER) program
Post-Admission Requirements
One month prior to the start of the program, students will be required to provide proof of the following certifications:
- Intermediate First Aid
- H2S Alive
- Common Safety Orientation (CSO)
All certificates must be valid for the duration of the program. Failure to provide proof may result in dismissal from the program.
Important Notes
- The program is eligible for Canada Student Loans. Visit StudentAid BC to apply for financial assistance online. Note that dual credit students are not eligible for Student Aid.
- Students must provide personal protective equipment (gloves, hard hats, coveralls, footwear having CSA safety-toe protection, and CSA safety glasses with clear lenses). Students are required to have a computer (laptop or other mobile device) with minimum computer requirements.
- The program is affiliated with SkilledTradesBC.
Program Requirements
| Residency Requirement | 100% of each level must be completed at Northern Lights College or by approval of the Dean |
|---|---|
| Minimum Grade Requirements | 70% minimum in all courses |
All of:
- PIPF 150 – Piping Trades Foundation Training (480 contact hours)
- PIPF 160 – Piping Trades Foundation Practicum (60 contact hours)
Credential
Certificate in Piping Trades Foundation Training