OCNews

Every builder remembers the moment things “clicked.” 
The first time a measurement lined up perfectly. 
The first time a project felt less like a task and more like a calling. 
 
For many carpenters across the region, those moments started at Okanagan College, in workshops that buzzed with possibility and included instructors who knew how to turn curiosity into ability. 
 
Graham Boots, with human resources at Greyback Construction, has seen it firsthand. “We’ve welcomed many OC-trained apprentice carpenters over the years — learners who were eager, gained experience, earned their Red Seal and stayed to help shape the region’s skylines,” said Boots, who is also an OC trained Red Seal carpenter. “These individuals have become valuable contributors to our team and continued to grow within the company.” 
 
It’s a familiar story heard within the Trades and Apprenticeship department at Okanagan College. Learners walk through workshop doors, curious about what’s possible, and leave with training in a skilled trade that gives them purpose, stability and room to grow. Along the way, they’re supported by instructors who’ve spent years on job sites and understand what today’s industry demands — safety, precision and problem solving, but also creativity, confidence and care.

Greyback Construction currently sponsors 16 apprentices, each learning the trade, one day, one challenge and one accomplishment at a time. 
 
One of those learners is Miranda Allen, a second-year OC apprentice working with Greyback Construction who started in the OC Carpenter-Joiner Foundation program. Today she’s gaining hands-on experience at the Skaha Hills development in Penticton, a partner of OC’s Carpentry Foundation program. “Students from the program contributed to the foundation and framing of two single-family homes in the Skaha Hills development,” shared Boots.  
 
With the next carpentry intakes starting in late January 2026, now’s the time to step into a future built on skill and possibility. “A career in carpentry opens many doors in the construction industry,” said Boots. “At Greyback Construction, our certified carpenters often advance into leadership roles such as lead hand, superintendent, and project manager.”

If you’re ready to build your skills, your confidence and a future with strong job prospects, carpentry at Okanagan College is a place to begin. It’s not too late to apply for the January 2026 Carpenter Foundation intakes. Winter 2026 classes are offered in Penticton and Salmon Arm and include three months of on-site training with local projects such as the Skaha Hills development. There are seats left in the Carpenter-Joiner Foundation program in Kelowna and our programs have regular intakes for new students so be sure to explore all our program offerings.

In addition to Foundation programs, OC offers Carpenter Apprenticeship levels 1-4 and professional development for carpenters including foreperson training and specialized training in sustainable construction, including solar installation and net zero windows and doors.   
 
Start or continue your carpentry journey with OC today!