Career Education

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Career Training

School District 54 offers a range of training opportunities designed to provide students with high school course credits and hands-on experience in various fields of interest. Our programs prepare students for future careers, blending academic learning with practical skills.

Key benefits of our programs include:

  • Real-World Experience: Engage in hands-on internships, fieldwork, and practical exercises that supports deeper learning.
  • Career Exploration: Gain insights into various professions and explore career pathways in diverse fields.
  • Skill Development: Acquire specialized skills and certifications that enhance career readiness and professional growth.
  • Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry professionals and organizations to build valuable connections.

Our training program offerings may change from time to time, so be sure to check with your school’s counsellor, career coordinator, our our website for more information.

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Programs for 2025-2026

Early Childhood Education

September 2025 - June 2026

Early Childhood Education students learn the current best practices in early learning and care, reflecting the changing needs of children and families in the 21st century. The dual-credit program consists of two courses, and upon completion of at least one of the courses listed below (ECCE 104 and ECCE 167), students may apply for the Early Childhood Education Assistant Certificate with the Early Childhood Registry. This allows students to work within the childcare system while continuing to complete the BC ECE Certificate Program or ECCE Diploma.

  • ECCE 104 Health, Safety & Nutrition (September 2025)

Location: Coast Mountain College Campus, Smithers

Prerequisites: English 11 or English First Peoples 11

HOW TO APPLY:

  1. Talk with your academic counsellor to determine suitability and prerequisites
  2. Fill out and submit a Coast Mountain College Application
  3. Fill out and submit a Coast Mountain College Dual-Credit form

 

More info on the ECCE Assistant program

Introduction to Health Practices

September 2025-January 2026

The Intro to Health course is a dual-enrollment course for students in Grades 11 and 12, with room for Grade 10 students if there are seats available. This program explores a wide variety of health professions through hands-on learning, guest lectures, and field studies. Students hone their health practice interests: Family doctor, Cardiologist, Psychiatrist, Lab technician, Ultrasound/X-ray Technician, Dentist, Veterinarian, Nurse, Health Care Assistant, Pharmacist, Physiotherapist, Paramedic, and other related fields.

The program also takes part in the Rural e-Mentoring Program, where aspiring healthcare students are partnered with practicing professionals in their field to support their journey into the field.

Students who are interested in pursuing a career in the health sector are encouraged to take this highly engaging course.

Location: Coast Mountain College Campus, Smithers

Class times: Monday through Friday (no Thursday) @ 1:48-3:10pm

HOW TO APPLY:

  1. Talk with your academic counsellor to determine suitability and prerequisites
  2. Fill out and submit a Coast Mountain College WTCS Application
  3. Fill out and submit a Coast Mountain College Dual-Enrollment form
  4. Fill out and submit a Rural E-Mentoring BC form

COFI Natural Resource Management Camp

May 14/15, 2026

This program is focused on careers in the forestry sector. Students in grades 10-12 head into the field to learn about the variety of careers that our natural environment offers. Workshops include:

  • Gathering data on tree measurement and age
  • Cultural heritage resources
  • Bridge building
  • Forest health
  • Forest planning using drones
  • Tree planting

KSM Seabridge Mine Camp

October 9/10, 2025
This two day event will take students four hours north to the camp 11, the site of the proposed KSM Seabridge Gold mine. There, grade 11 and 12 students will work with professionals in a wide variety of careers that work within the mining and exploration sector. The focus will be on hands-on learning, problem solving, and learning about the daily responsibilities and skills required for the job. Career sessions will include helicopter pilot, engineering, geology, equipment operator, environmental monitor, camp cook, security, and health and safety. Students will stay in their own private room with their own bathroom.

RCMP Program

March 15th-21st 2026

This dual-credit program is offered to students interested in a career in policing or law enforcement. Students are provided with a boot-camp style experience during a week of their Spring Break. Approximately 32 students from Northern BC stay at a Prince George secondary school for an entire week, where RCMP officers provide training opportunities on a wide range of topics. Physical fitness will be an important component for applicants, as there is a required fitness test prior to acceptance. Applicants should also be prepared for an interview as well.

Click the link below to fill out the application package. Applications must be submitted before October 23rd, 2025.

BC Wildfire Junior Attack

Dates TBD
Connect with the Career Coordinator at your school to learn more.

Industry and Trades Tour

Dates TBD

This event allows students to experience what life is like in a variety of industrial work settings locally. They get to meet business owners and managers and learn about a number of trades including

  • Automotive Technician
  • Glazier
  • Autobody Technician
  • Painter
  • Welder
  • Machinist
  • All of the trades associated with mining

Spots are limited for this event so connect with your careers coordinator to sign up.

Canadian Armed Forces Programs

Dates TBD
Students hear from CAF Officers who talk about a variety of student-focused programs, including summer work and training programs, CAF Indigenous entry, Indigenous leadershop Opportunity Year, and CAF 101. Interested students can connect with recruiters to find out more information about careers in the armed forces.