ICBC investing $13.3 million in apprenticeship grants to strengthen B.C.’s collision repair workforce

April 10, 2026

ICBC is investing $13.3 million over the next four years in new apprenticeship grants to address labour shortages in the collision repair industry, help reduce repair wait times over the longer term, and develop the next generation of skilled workers.

ICBC announced the investment today at Vancouver Community College with Rick Hatswell, board chair of the Automotive Retailers Association and president of Craftsman Collision and industry partners.

The new grants will increase apprenticeship opportunities at ICBC Repair Network facilities for automotive refinishing technicians and auto body and collision repair technicians. Up to $56,500 is available per apprenticeship to eligible ICBC Repair Network facilities, covering a substantial portion of employers’ apprenticeship costs.

As more technicians are trained, collision repair facilities will be able to strengthen their workforce to meet demand, helping shorten repair times for customers after a crash so they can get back on the road sooner with safe, high-quality repairs.

ICBC is also introducing new grants for women and Indigenous apprentices to diversify the workforce, support rural repair businesses by funding travel costs for apprentices who need to travel to access training, and recognizing more pathways into the trades.

The grants are structured to strengthen the long-term workforce more quickly by encouraging apprentices to move through training in a timely way. Funding is tied to each year of training and Red Seal certification.

Quotes

Jason McDaniel, president and CEO, ICBC

“We’re making this investment to help repair facilities bring more apprentices into the trade and support them through training and certification. Over time, that will mean more skilled technicians – helping reduce repair wait times after a crash for customers while maintaining safe, high-quality repairs.”

Niki Sharma, Attorney General

“Reducing barriers to training opportunities is essential to building a fairer, stronger British Columbia. This investment helps support women and Indigenous apprentices and people living in rural communities access collision repair training and build rewarding careers. By supporting apprentices, we’re creating a more inclusive workforce and helping more people succeed and build a future for themselves in the trades.”

Rick Hatswell, Board Chair of the Automotive Retailers Association and president of Craftsman Collision

“These grants come at a critical time for the collision repair industry. As vehicles become more complex, the need for skilled technicians has never been greater. Apprentices are essential to ensuring safe, proper repairs and safer roads across British Columbia.”