Training with the J.A. Plan
The J.A. Plan Jurisdiction Training Program helps workers, stewards, business agents, contractors, and industry leaders understand and manage jurisdictional issues effectively in British Columbia’s unionized construction industry. All training listed below is offered at no cost for eligible participants.
Level 1 – Foundations: Jurisdiction in BC Construction
Format: Online self-directed module
Duration: ~2 hours
Cost: FREE
Certificate: Issued on completion
Course Overview:
This introductory course provides a clear, practical foundation in jurisdiction concepts, the purpose and role of the Jurisdictional Assignment Plan (J.A. Plan), and how work assignments are made and disputes arise on construction projects. Participants will learn key terminology, background context, and essential tools for recognizing and preventing jurisdictional disagreements.
Participants will:
- Understand the basics of jurisdiction in BC construction
- Learn how the J.A. Plan supports fair work assignment
- Gain strategies for early communication and informal resolution
- Navigate core J.A. Plan resources
Who Should Take This Course:
- Tradespeople and apprentices
- Shop stewards
- Forepersons and supervisors
- New business agents
- Employer and contractor representatives
- Anyone new to jurisdiction or the J.A. Plan process
Access the Course:
Click to start learning now or to return to a course you’ve already started.
Questions?
Contact our training partner at [email protected].
Level 2 – Practice: Managing Jurisdictional Disputes
Format: In-person workshop
Duration: Full day (9:00 am – 4:00 pm)
Cost: FREE
Certificate: Issued on completion
Course Overview:
This advanced, hands-on workshop builds on Level 1 and gives participants the tools to apply best practices for assessing, managing, and resolving jurisdictional disputes. Through guided case studies and structured exercises, learners will deepen their understanding of how to use J.A. Plan procedures, resources, and professional communication at every stage of a dispute.
Participants will learn to:
- Verify when a dispute exists
- Collect and assess relevant jurisdictional evidence
- Seek informal resolution with confidence
- Prepare and submit applications under the J.A. Plan
- Understand what to expect in hearings and decisions
Who Should Take This Workshop:
- Business agents and union leadership
- Employer and contractor representatives
- Jurisdictional committee members
- Experienced shop stewards and forepersons
Prerequisite: Completion of Level 1 – J.A. Plan Foundations or equivalent knowledge.
Upcoming Workshops:
Winter 2026 — Dates to be announced.
To register, contact [email protected].
Need Help Deciding Where to Start?
- New to jurisdiction? Begin with Level 1: J.A. Plan Foundations
- Responsible for handling disputes? Move on to Level 2: J.A. Plan in Practice