Presented by BTZx in partnership with NSCC
Are you a trades and site lead looking to upskill with practical, code-ready climate knowledge?
The Climate Literacy for Trades course is a professional development offering focused on building science, energy-code readiness, and on-site decision-making. It equips tradespeople and site-leads with foundational climate knowledge and practical tools to support sustainable construction and reduce rework.
Pilot participants who complete the feedback will receive free access to the full course for their staff and members from January 2026 to March 2027. They will also get a PD/CE documentation pack (if you choose to recognize hours).
Location: Zoom Meeting
About the Trades Pilot
This pilot is an opportunity for association and organization leaders to experience and evaluate the course before its full rollout in 2026 and see if the course can be a fit for professional development. Your feedback will ensure it meets the real needs of your members.
Why Climate Literacy Matters
Many jurisdictions across Canada, including Nova Scotia, are exploring strategies to support the sustainable building industry. Research and consultation points to a critical gap: trades professionals need accessible, job-relevant climate literacy and understanding of emerging roles in the building sector.
This course responds to that need. By participating in this pilot, your association helps shape a resource that supports your members’ long-term success.
Why participate in the Trades Pilot?
- Build job-ready climate skills: understand site risks (e.g., severe weather), durability, and safety implications.
- Meet code with confidence: apply envelope basics (airtightness, insulation) tied to NECB/NBC performance requirements.
- Boost your marketability: align with low-carbon best practices and the growing demand for deep retrofit and resilient construction.
- Quick, high-impact format: expert-led, practical takeaways you can use on the next job.
Who should participate in the Trades Pilot?
- Journeypersons, apprentices, and forepersons across the trades (carpentry, electrical, plumbing, etc.).
- Construction and design pros who want a concentrated foundation in climate-smart practice.
Support for the program
Developed by Building to Zero Exchange (BTZx) and Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC), with funding from The ReCover Initiative and the Province of Nova Scotia, this course is part of a broader effort to improve climate literacy in the building sector.