How to participate
Apply through your school district by visiting your school's career coordinator for more details.
Additional Sampler programs
Sampler programs let you explore different fields like health, trades, tech, or leadership without the pressure of committing to a full program.
Engineering Sampler
The Engineering Sampler program introduces students to four key engineering fields through hands-on activities and fundamental design principles.
Students will explore problem-solving strategies and real-world applications across disciplines like structures, machines, water resources, and electronics.
Entry requirements: For high school students in grades 10-12
Delivery method: Hybrid
- Free training offered by Okanagan College and your local school district
- Students will receive 4 credits for high school
- Learn skills related to a variety of careers in the engineering sector
- Taught by industry professionals
- Topics covered:
- Mechanical, Civil, Electronic and Water Engineering technology will be introduced
- Program date: February 2026 - May 2026
- Offered in:
- SD22 - Winter 2026 | February 2026 - May 2026
- SD23 - Winter 2027 | February 2027 - May 2027
- Attend classes two evenings per week at Okanagan College and some Saturdays
- Held in person with some online learning and field trips
Health Care Sampler
The Health Sampler program at Okanagan College offers high school students an engaging introduction to the diverse and rewarding world of health care through a mix of collaborative classroom learning, hands-on lab experiences, and interactive activities. Topics covered may include, but are not limited to dental, nursing, wellness, and the vital role of administrative and support positions within the health system.
Field trips and guest speakers from different areas of the health sector offer real-world insight and inspiration, helping students discover potential pathways for their future studies and careers.
Entry requirements: For high school students in grades 10-12
Delivery method: Hybrid
- Free training offered by Okanagan College and your local school district
- Students will receive 4 credits for high school
- Learn skills related to a variety of careers in the health industry
- Taught by industry professionals
- Topics covered include, but are not limited to:
- Dental Assistant, Medical Office Assistant, Therapeutic Assistant Diploma, Pharmacy Technician Assistant, Licensed Practical Nurse, Human Service Worker, Human Kinetic Diploma, Medical Device Reprocessing.
- Program date: February 2026 - May 2026
- Attend evening classes twice a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays) and Saturday labs at Okanagan College, with some field trips included
- Some online material will also be presented through Okanagan College’s platform Moodle
Leadership in Action Sampler
The Leadership in Action program empowers high school students to become confident, effective leaders through interactive learning in leadership fundamentals, conflict resolution, communication, and teamwork. Students apply these skills hands-on by leading activities and mentoring children in a day camp setting, where they strengthen their abilities through real-world practice, feedback, and personal reflection.
Entry requirements: For high school students in grades 10-12
Delivery method: Hybrid
- Free training offered by Okanagan College and your local school district
- Students will receive either 2 or 4 credits for high school - depending what option is available to you through your school district
- Students will volunteer either 1 or 2 weeks at Camp OC throughout July and August
- Program date: June 2026 - August 2026
- Online course work available mid–June. In-person runs the weeks of your choosing throughout July and August.
- OPTION 1 (2 credits): 2-hour in-person orientation, 12 hours of online coursework, and 35 in-person volunteer hours at Camp OC (1 week at Camp OC)
- OPTION 2 (4 credits): 2-hour in-person orientation, 12 hours of online coursework, and 70 in-person volunteer hours at Camp OC (2 weeks at Camp OC)
Technology Sampler
The Tech Sampler introduces learners to the world of information technology and computer science. Through conceptual learning and hands-on activities, learners will explore and gain foundational skills in two key areas — IT Essentials and Introduction to Coding.
Entry requirements: For high school students in grades 10-12
Delivery method: Online
- Free training offered by Okanagan College and your local school district
- Learn skills related to a variety of careers in the information technology sector
- Taught by industry professionals
- Gain hands-on skills directly related to IT Essentials and Mobile Coding
- Program date: September 2026 - December 2026
- Two evenings per week at 5:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
- Course materials presented online
Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence (ML&AI) Sampler
Through hands-on projects, students will explore authentic real-world data and present their findings through compelling visualizations. This course is designed to not only explore technical skills, but to foster critical thinking, creativity, and communication abilities, preparing students for educational pathways leading to high-demand careers that will empower them to make real societal impact.
Entry requirements: For high school students in grades 10-12
Delivery method: In-person
- Free training offered by Okanagan College and your local school district
- Students will receive four (4) credits for high school
- Learn skills related to a variety of careers in the data science/tech industry
- Taught by industry professional
- Topics covered:
- Sampling, Survey Design & Descriptive Statistics
- Data Visualization & Storytelling
- Introduction to Machine Learning: Linear Regression
- Artificial Intelligence & Simulation
- Program date: September 2026 - December 2026
- Two evenings per week and every other Saturday
Spa Sampler
The Spa Sampler Program offers high school students an introduction to esthetics and nail technology, covering skincare fundamentals, nail health, sanitation, safety practices, wellness treatments, and career pathways in the beauty industry. In this program, students explore the creative world of spa services while discovering potential career opportunities in a fun, supportive learning environment.
Entry requirements: For high school students in grades 10-12
Delivery method: In-person at the Okanagan College Spa Training Centre in Vernon
- Free training offered by Okanagan College and your local school district
- Students will receive 4 credits for high school
- Taught by industry professionals
- Learn skills related to the esthetics and nail tech industry
- Program date: TBD - Fall 2026
- Two evenings per week with some Saturdays at the Okanagan College Spa Training Centre Vernon