Skilled Trade Discovery Program
The Skilled Trades Discovery Program offers an extensive exploration of multiple trades, providing participants with an in-depth understanding over 240 hours. This comprehensive experience allows individuals to acquire practical skills and even attain certifications sought by trade employers.
Positioned as an intake group, the program immerses students in diverse careers associated with the construction industry, specifically focusing on:
- Carpentry
- Electrical
- Plumbing
The curriculum of the program is predominantly hands-on, emphasizing skill-building, knowledge acquisition, and cultivating the right attitude desired by employers. Incorporating essential skills outlined by SkilledTradesBC (formerly the Industry Training Authority or ITA), the course includes field trips to businesses employing tradespeople, project construction in the workshop, and practical exercises facilitated by ACE’s proficient instructors. The integration of drafting and mathematics complements day-to-day learning experiences.
The Skilled Trades Discovery Program not only imparts tangible skillsrelevant to daily work in Carpentry, Electrical, and Plumbing but also fostersan understanding of the professionalism inherent in these trades. The curriculum instills safe workplace practices, facilitates student skill development, and encourages the design, planning, production, and evaluation of various techniques and projects.
This program introduces students to the core construction-related trades, namely Carpentry, Plumbing, and Electrical. It goes beyond imparting safeworkplace practices and skill development, offering an introduction to design, planning, and building techniques. Students gain hands-on experience through community-based construction projects, fostering theoretical and practical knowledge while providing a realistic overview of construction trades.
Commencing on April 4, the Skilled Trades Discovery Program caters to students, young adults, or women seeking to acquire practical skills, general employment certifications, and explore careers in trades. This unique opportunity allows participants to delve into Carpentry, Electrical, and Plumbing, acquiring foundational skills crucial for potential careers in these Trades.
The Electrical component of the program introduces students to essential skills required for a career in the trade, encompassing various materials and processes used by electricians. Carpentry exploration encompasses residential, commercial, and renovation construction, covering material and tool selection, standard building techniques, and the transformation of 2-D plans into 3-D objects. Plumbing studies encompass pipe/steam fitting, gasfitting, and sprinkler fitting, teaching students to create piping systems using appropriate practices and tools.
Graduates of the program can explore further development as well-rounded tradespersons. The program’s success lies in cultivating a trained workforce capable of installing, commissioning, repairing, and maintaining specific equipment associated with evolving technology. Ideal for those who thrive on change and adapting to new technology, the program emphasizes hands- on, practical training within ACE Community College’s dedicated 3200 sq feet workshop focused on industry practices.
The integration of theoretical components complements practical training, with industry tours providing exposure to various work environments. This holistic approach ensures that participants are well-prepared for success in the dynamic and evolving field of skilled trades.
Note: The application is currently in process. No enrollments, advertisements, or marketing will be entertained until this program is approved by the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training.
Prior to acceptance:
Applicants must successfully complete the admissions interview and entrance assessments with a minimum score of 50% in the English Assessment and a minimum score of 50% in the Math Assessment .
Domestic Students:
Domestic students that can provide a Canadian transcript showing completion of English 11 or 12 or equivalent) with a passing grade of ‘C’, will be exempt from having to write the English Entrance Assessment.
Domestic students that can provide a Canadian transcript showing completion of Math 10, 11 or 12 (or equivalent) with a passing grade of ‘C’, will be exempt from having to write the Math Entrance Assessment.
International Students:
International students can meet the Math Entrance Assessment requirement by providing an equivalent to Canadian High School Math 10, 11 or 12 with a passing grade of ‘C’. The credential must be evaluated and verified.
Physical Requirements:
- Lift and carry tools, equipment, supplies and materials weighing up
to approximately 50 lbs. - Lift, carry, hold and operate hand, air and power tools from below
grade to above shoulders - Stand on concrete, dirt, rock, asphalt, wood, etc. for extended periods
of time - Bend, stoop, kneel, crawl to perform tasks
- Learn and work in a shop environment
- Push/pull and carry lumber and construction materials
- Climb extension ladders, and work on scaffolding at heights
Recommendations for Success:
- Maintain good general health and respiratory condition.
- Demonstrate capability for physical work, including sufficient physical strength and stamina for handling heavy equipment and materials.
- Ability to tolerate noise and vibration effectively.
- Possess balance and coordination skills, enabling walking on uneven
ground for up to 8 hours per day. - Exhibit good manual dexterity.
- Demonstrate excellent hand-eye coordination.
- Ensure satisfactory eyesight, including proficiency in line, form, and depth perception.
- Upon successful completion of the Skilled Trades Discovery Program, students will acquire comprehensive knowledge and practical skills across three distinct trades: Electrical, Carpentry, and Plumbing. This program, spanning eight weeks, provides participants with a unique opportunity to explore and gain insights into the foundational aspects of each trade, facilitating informed decisions about their future career paths.
- Throughout the program, students will engage in hands-on learning experiences to master Essential Skills, Safe Work Practices, and Workforce Certificates. The curriculum encompasses a thorough exploration of Electrical, Carpentry, and Plumbing trades, incorporating both manual and CAD drafting standards. By actively participating in practical scenarios, students will develop proficiency in the application of these skills, ensuring a well-rounded understanding of the trades.
- Specifically, participants in the Plumbing component will articulate the scope of plumbing work, comprehend the culture of various pipe trades, and demonstrate expertise in employing safe shop practices. Mastery of hazard control, utilization of personal protective equipment (PPE), and identification of tools and equipment purposes are integral components of the Plumbing curriculum. Additionally, Exhibit good manual dexterity.
- Demonstrate excellent hand-eye coordination. Ensure satisfactory eyesight, including proficiency in line, form, and depth perception. Students will acquire the ability to construct piping systems using appropriate materials, tools, equipment, and established safety procedures.
- In the Carpentry module, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the trade, including its scope, the role of a carpenter, and the history and culture surrounding carpentry. Emphasis is placed on the implementation of safe shop practices, hazard control, and adherence to emergency procedures. Furthermore, students will develop the ability to identify and describe construction materials and systems, ultimately enabling them to construct carpentry projects using suitable materials, tools, equipment, and safety procedures.
- The Electrical trade component introduces students to essential skills required for a successful career in the field. Covering various materials and processes employed by electricians, the course sheds light on different career options within the electrical trade, such as construction and industrial electrician roles. Emphasis is placed on adherence to electrical code requirements to ensure safe working practices, including the judicious selection of materials and tools for task execution.
- By the program’s conclusion, students will not only have explored and gained insights into these in-demand trades but will also have the practical skills and certifications sought by employers in the skilled trades industry. This holistic approach equips participants with the knowledge and competence to embark on successful careers in Electrical, Carpentry, or Plumbing, informed by a well-rounded understanding of each trade’s intricacies.
Skilled Trades Discovery Program
* The application is currently in process. No enrollments, advertisements, or marketing will be entertained until this program is approved by the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training.
Skilled Trades Discovery Program

The Advanced Diploma in Data Cabling and Security Systems is an industry focused program that provides students with the technical expertise and practical skills required to succeed in the telecommunications, IT infrastructure, and security sectors. The program covers a broad range of topics, including the design, installation, and maintenance of structured cabling systems and advanced security solutions. Students gain hands-on experience with various cabling types, such as Cat5e, Cat6, and fiber optics, as well as network devices like switches and routers. They learn to set up, terminate, and test cabling systems, ensuring they meet industry standards and performance benchmarks. Additionally, the program offers in-depth training in security system installation, including CCTV cameras, access control systems, and alarm technologies, enabling students to integrate and maintain secure environments effectively.
The curriculum also integrates project management principles and troubleshooting techniques, equipping students with the problem-solving and organizational skills needed to oversee cabling and security projects from planning to completion. Practical application of theory is reinforced through workshop training using industry standard tools, allowing students to simulate real-world scenarios.
Program Overview:
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for roles such as Data Cabling Technicians, Network Infrastructure Specialists, and Security Systems Installers. With a focus on technical expertise, safety compliance, and adaptability to emerging technologies, the Advanced Diploma in Data Cabling and Security Systems positions students for success in a competitive and growing field. Practical application of theory is demonstrated in shop of our campus. Safety and compliance are emphasized throughout the program. Students are trained in essential workplace safety practices, including WHMIS, Working at Heights, Elevating Work Platforms, Lockout & Tag Safety, Scaffold Users’ Hazard Awareness, Confined Spaces Hazard Awareness. These certifications ensure graduates are prepared to work safely in diverse environments while adhering to industry standards
Career Opportunities:
Graduates will be prepared for careers in designing, installing, and maintaining network cabling and security systems. Job roles include Data Cabling Technicians, Security Systems Specialists, and IT Infrastructure Coordinators. Graduates can work in telecommunications, IT services, and security sectors, contributing to robust infrastructure and reliable systems. This program provides hands-on skills and knowledge to meet industry demands, enabling professionals to support critical connectivity and security needs in modern businesses and organizations.
Program Accreditation:
Our program is fully accredited by the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Training, ensuring the highest standards of education and training excellence.
Length of the Program:
The duration of our program encompasses a total of 1440 hours over 72 weeks of comprehensive instruction and hands-on training. This time frame ensures that students receive a focused and intensive educational experience, preparing them effectively for their chosen career paths within the construction and trades industry.
Prior to Acceptance:
- English Language Proficiency Requirements
Provide verified results for one of the English language proficiency tests listed below. Test results must be dated no more than two years before the start date of the program.
Name of English language assessment/test |
Minimum score(s)/level(s)* |
|
1. |
International English Language Testing System |
Minimum overall score of 5.5 |
2. |
Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) IBT |
Minimum overall score of 46 |
3. |
Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL) |
Minimum overall score of 40 |
4. |
Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) |
Listening 6, Speaking 6, Reading 5, and Writing 5. |
5. |
Duolingo English Test (DET) |
Minimum overall score of 95 |
6. |
Pearson Test of English (PTE) Academic |
Minimum overall score of 43 |
7. |
Cambridge English Qualifications: B2 First exam (FCE) Institutions may include other Cambridge Qualifications at a higher level (i.e., C2 Proficiency (CPE)). |
Minimum overall score of |
8. |
Cambridge Linguaskill |
Minimum overall B2 level |
9. |
LANGUAGECERT Academic |
Minimum overall B2 level |
10. |
The Michigan English Test (MET) |
Minimum overall B2 level |
11. |
iTEP Academic |
Minimum overall score of 3.5 |
12. |
EIKEN |
Minimum placement of Grade Pre-1 |
OR
High School Credential
- Evidence that 3 years of full-time secondary education (Grades 8-12), or 2 years of secondary education (including English 10 and 11 with a grade of ‘C’ or higher) from a country where English is one of the principal languages
OR
Other Criteria
- 2 years of full-time post-secondary education have been completed in the program’s language of instruction in a country where the language of instruction is one of the principal languages.
OR
Mature Domestic Students:
- This option applies only if:
- The program's language of instruction is English.
- The applicant is a mature domestic student facing barriers.
- The applicant is unable to access their educational records or provide sufficient proof of secondary/post-secondary education.
- Accuplacer Assessment:
- Applicants must be [X] years or older at the start of the program and a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Must provide attestation of completing at least three years of full-time education in English in a country where English is one of the primary languages (ELL courses do not count).
- Must achieve the following minimum scores on the Accuplacer English Assessment (Next Generation):
- Reading: 230
- Writing: 230
- WritePlacer: 4
AND
- Math Proficiency Requirements : Successful completion of provincially recognized Grade 10, 11, or 12 Mathematics with a minimum passing score of C.
OR
Successful completion of a math assessment conducted in-house by Ace Community College with a minimum score of 50%.
Program Duration & Structure
Component | Duration | Total Hours |
---|---|---|
Classroom & Practical Training | 36 Weeks | 720 Hours |
Co-op Training (with Data Cabling & Security Systems Contractors) | 36 Weeks | 720 Hours |
Total Program Length | 72 Weeks | 1440 Hours |
- Homework Expectation: 1-3 hours per day
- Flexible Learning Options: In-class, Distance, or Combined Learning
Detailed Course Breakdown
Course Title | Hours | Delivery Method | Distance/Combined Delivery |
---|---|---|---|
Signals and Wires/ Copper Media | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Fiber-Optic Media/ Introduction to Cabling | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Structured Cabling/ Tools of the Trade | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Cabling Installation Process/ Cabling Rough-In | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Trim Out Phase/ Finish Phase | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Summative and Final Evaluations | 40 | Combined | Synchronous |
Cabling and Safety Overview/ Networking | 40 | Combined | Synchronous |
Small Business Management | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Cabling Rough-In | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Fundamentals of an Estimator | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Estimating and Takeoffs | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Shop Training - Cabling | 80 | In-Class | N/A |
Introduction to Security Alarm Systems Hardware | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Security System Wiring and Hardware Demonstrations | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
DSC Security System Programming Walkthrough | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Live Hardware Installation and Extra System Info (Panel, Keypad & Devices) | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Internet Module Set-Up and Use | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Using & Understanding Your Security System and Features - Basic | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Using & Understanding Your Security System and Features - Advanced | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Shop Training - Security Alarm Systems | 80 | In-Class | N/A |
Basics of CCTV | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
IP Camera Systems - Basics of IP Networks & IP Cameras | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
IP Camera Systems - Network Video Recorders (NVR) & Useful Tools | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
IP Camera Systems - Video Management System (VMS) | 20 | Combined | Synchronous |
Shop Training - CCTV | 80 | In-Class | N/A |
Co-op Training with Security Systems Contractor | 720 | In-Class | N/A |
- Total Program Hours: 1440
- Includes hands-on experience and real-world projects
Advanced Diploma in Data Cabling & Security Systems
* The application is currently in process. No enrollments, advertisements, or marketing will be entertained until this program is approved by the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills.
Advanced Diploma in Data Cabling & Security Systems
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