In response to the pressing issue of a growing shortage of skilled labor in the collision repair industry, ICBC is dedicated to making a difference. We want to bring your attention to an important update: the closing date for eligibility regarding ICBC cohort grants for apprentices and employers is fast approaching on September 30, 2023.
As of now, there are nearly 300 apprentices working within Collision Repair Program facilities. Surprisingly, just over a third of them have taken the opportunity to register for the cohort grant. If your facility employs an apprentice, we strongly urge you to consider registering them for this valuable apprenticeship incentive.
It’s worth noting that apprentices don’t need to complete a specific training level to be eligible for cohort registration. They can qualify for payments through to September 30, 2028, as they make progress towards their certification. These apprenticeship funding incentives have been thoughtfully designed to nurture and develop the skills and talents of individuals in British Columbia aspiring to build a rewarding career in the collision repair industry.
Let’s dive into the details:
ICBC is providing Auto Body and Collision Technician apprentices, Automotive Refinishing Technicians, and ICBC repair facilities that employ them, with:
- A one-time, $1,500 tool grant for eligible apprentices upon successful Level 1 completion to help offset the initial cost of trade tools.
- Compensation for ICBC collision repair facilities that employ eligible apprentices – $1,000 for each training level completed by an apprentice.
Eligibility
Any apprentice (new or existing) enrolled in the Auto Body and Collision or Automotive Refinisher Technician apprenticeship, registered with SkilledTradesBC (formerly the Industry Training Authority), employed at an ICBC Collision Repair Program or ICBC Commercial Collision Repair Program facility, and who are listed in Entegral between October 1, 2022 and September 30, 2023.
Intake process and action required
Intake eligibility will occur from October 1, 2022 to September 30, 2023. Please note, we will not be accepting applicants into the program outside of these dates.
Repair facilities will need to take the following steps to register an apprentice:
- Enter the apprentice into Entegral
- Notify ICBC that you have an eligible apprentice by emailing supplierprograms@icbc.com
ICBC will validate the information and issue payment by cheque to either the apprentice and/or repair facility, whichever is applicable.
Additional information can be found here.