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

May 20, 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.

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