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B.C. custody work programs

Last updated on November 21, 2024

You may participate in programs that offer opportunities to gain employment skills and perform meaningful work while you serve your sentence in a provincial correctional centre.

The skills you learn and confidence you gain can help with your transition back into the community, making a difference to your circumstances.

A wide range of programs are provided by BC Corrections. Depending on the correctional centre, you may earn certification in:

  • Building maintenance
  • Industrial first aid
  • Canadian Welding Bureau (CWB) welding
  • FOODSAFE Level 1
  • Workplace hazardous materials information systems
  • Safe pesticide application
  • SuperHost customer service
  • Chainsaw operation
  • Basic electrical
  • Drywall installation
  • Forklift operation
  • Bobcat operation
  • Construction craft worker

Some of the other work skills programs in correctional centres may include:

  • ALLCO fish hatchery - In partnership with the Alouette River Management Society, a crew from Fraser Regional Correctional Centre keeps salmon stocks healthy in the Alouette River and other watersheds
  • Carpentry, metal fabrication and apprenticeship - Many correctional centres teach carpentry and metal works, including fabrication, power tool use, welding and repair
  • Horticulture - Horticulture programs at several correctional centres throughout B.C. grow and donate thousands of pounds of produce to community groups, local food banks, and seniors’ organizations
  • Roofing apprenticeship – Individuals earn their Level 1 roofing apprenticeships and gain meaningful, well-paying employment upon release
  • Services for camps, parks and community groups - Individuals with the appropriate security clearance give back to the community by performing maintenance, path clearing, cleaning and building for parks, municipal and non-profit groups
  • Tailor Shop program - Makes and mends clothing for people in custody and other items for all 10 correctional centres in B.C. and creates much-needed items for local community groups and international aid organizations
  • Wildfire suppression - Specially trained crews from correctional centres provide vital support to the BC Wildfire Service, setting up and taking down camp equipment and facilities, and cleaning, inspecting, testing, and repairing firehoses
Criminal justice glossary

Check our alphabetical list of criminal justice terms along with their definitions.