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VANCOUVER – The Vancouver Regional ��������ion Association (VRCA) is now accepting applications for its 2026 Bursary Program, which provides up to $3,000 to students pursuing careers in construction.

The program helps bridge the industry’s growing workforce gap and empowers students to attain high-demand, hands-on careers, explains a release.

Eligible applicants include full-time post-secondary students as well as Grade 12 students exploring careers in trades such as carpentry, electrical, flooring and plumbing, as well as fields like construction and project management.����

“Since 2023, the VRCA has been proud to support emerging construction professionals through our Bursary Program,” said Jeannine Martin, president of the VRCA, in a statement. “This financial support helps students stay focused on their training and opens doors to meaningful, long-term careers in one of B.C.’s most essential industries.” 

VRCA’s Bursary Program is just one of the ways the association helps to inspire the next generation. 

The association’s Bring Trades to Schools program gives students hands-on experience with carpentry, masonry, electrical, mechanical, ironwork and heavy equipment operation simulation with guidance from industry experts. Over the years the program has grown from 15 students to over 580, the release adds.

“Programs like the VRCA Bursary and Bring Trades to Schools are critical to strengthening the talent pipeline,” added Martin. “By giving students real exposure to the trades and the confidence and resources to pursue these career paths, we’re helping to build a resilient workforce and ensuring the construction industry continues to thrive.” 

Recipients of the VRCA Bursary will be announced publicly in February at the VRCA Annual General Meeting.

Interested students are being asked to complete an application form by 11:59 p.m. on Jan. 6, 2026.

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