Future builders showcase skills through BCIT’s ACE Certificate program delivered in partnership with ר
to digital modelling, construction project management, communication/professionalism and building technology — developed and delivered in partnership with the British Columbia’s Institute of Technology (BCIT) and Local Practice Architecture + Design and supported by the Province of B.C.’s Workplace Innovation Fund (WIF). WIF seeks to address labour shortages and increase productivity to help with workforce challenges and prepare BC for a changing economy.
For student Talon Toye, the ACE program offered clarity during a time of uncertainty.
“I didn’t know what I wanted to do after high school. This program sounded like a good way to learn about pathways into these industries,” he said. “My favourite part was building the framing wall. It was all teamwork — by that time, everyone knew each other, and we were comfortable communicating and working together. Honestly, it was worth my summer.”
From wall framing to drafting in Revit, students demonstrated how much ground they covered in just a few short months. OC instructor for the ACE Certificate, Aaron Spohr, was impressed by the transformation. “I was blown away. From day one to today, the growth has been huge. Their presentations were professional, their work was solid, and their ability to absorb and apply concepts quickly was impressive,” said Spohr. “This program gives them exposure to different aspects of the industry so they can figure out where their interests lie before committing to one path.”
The ACE Certificate continues with two 23-week, industry paid internships across the Okanagan, paired with online courses in communication, materials, systems, and estimating. The structure allows students to gain real-world experience, industry contacts, and confidence before deciding on their long-term career or education path.
Matthew Woodruff, Principal and Architect at Local Practice Architecture + Design Ltd. and instructor at BCIT, emphasized the importance of this collaboration. “All the stars aligned between OC and BCIT — both are agile, entrepreneurial, and deeply connected to their communities,” he shared. “Programs like this change the conversation about careers in construction and design. These students may not know everything yet, but they have the foundation, and they’re already useful in the field.”
Devon Franklin, BCIT’s Industry Services Manager in the School of Construction and the Environment, emphasized, “We believe that BCIT’s ACE Certificate is too valuable of a learning experience to offer only in the lower mainland. It’s through strategic partnerships, like this one with ר, that recent high school graduates from around the province will have the opportunity to apply to ACE.”
For employers, the program creates early opportunities to mentor and engage with talent.
“This is a really interesting way to get into the industry at younger age,” said Matt Bernier, a project manager with Wildstone Construction, a partner employer for the ACE program. “I didn’t have opportunities like this until years after school. What these students are getting is an incredible head start, and their presentations show the program is working. It’s something special.”
With significant career opportunities in architecture, construction and engineering in B.C. over the next ten years, the ACE Certificate is designed to help students and industry alike. “Their learning will shift into overdrive during the internships,” stated Spohr. “This program is laid out to balance academics, hands-on skills, and professionalism—and it’s very applicable to where the industry is heading.”
“This program reflects ר’s deep connection to the communities we serve,” said Alison Gibson, dean of community engagement and careers at OC. “Across the Okanagan, demand for skilled workers with experience in architecture, construction and engineering continues to grow. By aligning our programming with local labour market needs, we’re ensuring students gain the hands-on skills that employers are looking for — and that our region has the talent it needs to thrive.”
Student tuition for the 2025/2026 program is funded through the Workplace Innovation Fund. Local Practice Architecture + Design, BCIT, and ר gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills.
Learn more at okanagan.bc.ca/ace or email AskOC@okanagan.bc.ca for information about 2026/2027 enrolment.
