Bridging Community & Industry (BCI)
The Bridging Community & Industry (BCI) program connects education with real-world industry needs. It is funded by the Government of Canada through the Union Training and Innovation Program (UTIP) and the Government of Nova Scotia’s Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration. Delivered by the Nova Scotia Construction Sector Council, the program is designed to support equity-deserving communities by removing barriers to trades-based apprenticeships. Participants receive essential skills training in under 20 weeks, creating opportunities for a diverse and skilled workforce in Nova Scotia.
BCI aims to create a clear pathway to employment by offering hands-on training and resources that meet industry demands, fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. The program addresses key labour shortages in Nova Scotia while contributing to economic development and creating lasting opportunities for individuals and communities. With programs scheduled yearly and continuously updated to reflect industry needs, BCI ensures that participants gain the most relevant skills and training for today's job market.
Project Management & Estimating (PM&E)
The Introduction to Project Management and Estimating Program is a comprehensive 12-week hybrid course designed to meet the growing demands of the ICI (Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional) construction industry. Funded by the One Journey Initiate this advanced program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in both project management and estimating. The program covers a wide range of essential topics, including blueprint and technical specification reading and comprehension, as well as practical and theoretical concepts in estimation and project management. It provides students with a solid foundation in the core principles of construction project management, including estimating theory, blueprint reading, legal matters, ethics, and safety regulations, while also addressing law, contracts, safety protocols, and communication in the workplace.
The course utilizes a hybrid approach, combining online learning with instructor-led classroom instruction. This format ensures that students develop a deep understanding of the key concepts, all of which are essential to their success in the construction industry.
In addition to the core curriculum, the program includes one week of employment coaching designed to prepare students for the job market. To further support their transition into the workforce, the program offers one week of job placement with a local construction employer, providing students with the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience and apply their learning in a real-world setting.
Better SuperVision (BSV)
Designed by industry for industry and offered by the Nova Scotia Construction Sector Council (NSCSC), Better SuperVision (BSV) is a nationally recognized comprehensive construction specific supervisory program aimed at providing forepersons and supervisors with the tools they need for success. Structured as a blended learning program, Better SuperVision combines online learning and classroom instruction to ensure participants can effectively deal with situations related to supervision, liability, planning, troubleshooting, quality management, conflict, mentoring, and safety. Additionally, participants must complete a practical assessment of the skills learned (coaching tool) and a safety supervisory course (i.e. Leadership for Safety Excellence or equivalent) to satisfy all requirements for certification.
