Article Summary
Vancouver Community College is launching four new automotive programs in 2026 to train technicians for the electric vehicle industry, including diplomas, certificates and microcredentials in EV repair, service and conversion. The programs were developed with industry partners to prepare graduates for high-demand roles in clean energy vehicle technology.
- VCC is launching four new EV automotive programs starting September 2026, including certificates, diplomas and microcredentials
- Programs cover high-voltage battery systems, EV motor repair and vehicle conversion to meet industry demand for certified technicians
- British Columbia aims for 75% of cars sold by 2035 to be electric, creating urgent demand for skilled EV technicians
- Students can choose flexible two-year diploma pathways or short microcredentials to build specialized skills
- VCC is opening a Centre for Clean Energy and Automotive Innovation in 2027 with modern equipment for next-generation automotive technology training
Vancouver Community College is launching four new automotive programs to prepare British Columbia’s automotive sector for the transition to clean energy and sustainable technologies.
The programs were designed in partnership with the industry to ensure graduates enter the workplace with the skills they need to meet the growing demand for hybrid- and electric-vehicle-certified technicians.
“Now is an exciting time to be working in the automotive industry as we’re seeing a huge expansion in the roles and skills needed within the field,” says Brett Griffiths, dean of trades, technology and design at VCC, in the media release. “VCC partnered closely with industry to develop these programs. This has ensured our automotive training gives students hands-on experience and industry connections, helping them enter a field with strong future job prospects.”
As part of its Zero-Emission Vehicles Act, the Government of B.C. aims for 75% of all cars sold by 2035 to be electric vehicles. Yet, the automotive industry needs more EV-certified technicians. Through its new programs, VCC will add to the number of technicians, teaching students to work with clean energy technologies, including how to work with high-voltage battery systems, repair EV traction motors, the latest environmental standards and how to source and stock parts for both traditional and modern vehicle systems, noted the media release.
VCC is also expanding its Broadway Campus with the opening of a new Centre for Clean Energy and Automotive Innovation in 2027. The facility will provide students with access to modern equipment designed for the future of automotive technology.
The programs are open to new students and to those already working in the industry who want to upgrade their skills or work with EVs. Students can opt for the full two-year diploma pathway or complete short, flexible microcredentials to build specialized skills, such as converting gas-powered vehicles to electric in EV Conversion (TRDE 3004).
VCC’s new programs include:
- Automotive Electronics Repair certificate
- Automotive Logistics and Service Operations – Zero Emissions diploma
- Electric Vehicle Conversion microcredential
- Zero Emissions Vehicle Service and Technology microcredential
Intakes occur throughout the year, with the Automotive Electronics Repair certificate and the Automotive Logistics and Service Operations – Zero Emissions diploma beginning in September 2026.
