Building Service Worker Training (BSW)

From Training to Employment

Do you speak Spanish, Tigrinya, Punjabi, or Tagalog (Filipino)?

The Building Service Worker Training (BSW) is a free program for individuals who meet the eligibility criteria and want to start a career as a building service worker.

Participants begin with 7 weeks of training that combines essential employability, language, and occupational skills. This is followed by 3 weeks of on-the-job work experience with local employers, and 2 weeks of job search support and follow-up.

The program equips participants with the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to succeed in the building service field!

Recruitment Status: Recruitment for 2026 cohorts has now closed. If you are interested in future cohorts, we encourage you to submit an application to express your interest.

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Eligibility

To join this program, you need to meet the following criteria:

                                    
                                    Approved by WorkBC
Unemployed

                                    
                                    Must be on EI OR have had a claim in the last 5 years OR have earned more than $2,000 in insurable earnings and paid employee EI premiums on those earnings in at least 5 of the last 10 years OR A British Columbia Employment and Assistance Client (BCEA)

                                    
                                    English at CLB 4/5+
Commit to 7 weeks of in-person training and a 3-week work placement

                                    
                                    Either a Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Refugee (protected person) with valid work permit
Living in the Metro Vancouver area

Program Description

Over a 12-week period, participants will progress through a combination of classroom learning, practical training, and on-the-job experience:

Week 1–6: Building Service Worker Course & Occupation-Specific Language Training (OSLT): Gain technical skills in cleaning techniques, equipment uses, and workplace safety, alongside targeted English language training to improve workplace communication.

Week 7: Job Search & Employability Skills: Learn how to write a professional résumé, prepare for interviews, your rights as a worker, and explore career opportunities in the building service sector.

Weeks 8–10: Supervised Work Experience: Apply your skills in a real-world setting under the guidance of experienced professionals at a local employer.

Weeks 11–12: Job Search & Follow-Up Support: Receive personalized guidance to help you secure employment, including direct employer connections.

After completing your training, you will receive a Document of Completion from Vancouver Community College. Participants will also earn their Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System (WHMIS) certificate, a recognized safety credential that increases your employability.

Graduates of the Building Service Worker Training (BSW) program leave with practical skills, industry-specific English proficiency, and valuable work experience, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.