BC Plumbing Apprenticeship – Level 2
Faculty/Staff: Paul Simpson, Audrey Curran, Rod Lidstone, BC Plumbing Articulation/ Curriculum Committees, Skilled Trades BC
Platform: Pressbooks
Site link (if applicable):
- Block A: Fuel Gas Systems – https://a-fuelgas-bcplumbingapprl2.pressbooks.tru.ca
- Block B: Heating and Cooling Systems – https://b-heating-bcplumbingapprl2.pressbooks.tru.ca
- Block C: Install Fixtures and Appliances – https://c-plumbfixappliance-bcplumbingapprl2.pressbooks.tru.ca
- Block D: Drainage Systems – https://d-drainagesystems-bcplumbingapprl2.pressbooks.tru.ca
Services provided: Site domain/setup, site design/layout, platform support, multimedia, copy editing, and copyright review
Description: BC Plumbing Apprenticeship – Level 2 aims to make the TRU Plumbing program entirely Zero Textbook Cost (ZTC), as BC campus has already negotiated and worked with Skilled Trades BC to convert Levels III and IV into digital Open Educational Resources (OERs). Through collaboration with a consortium of Plumbing instructors from various institutions, the project will enhance access to educational resources for thousands of students.
Upcoming project: Plumbing Apprenticeship Program Level 1 – to begin March 2025 – to be completed and available at TRU Open Press March 2026!
Impact Summary
- Used in course(s): Plumber (Harmonized) – Level 2
- When: March 23, 2026 to May 15, 2026; April 22, 2025 to June 13, 2025; October 27, 2025 to December 19, 2025
- Estimated number of students using textbook(s): 36 (x 4 binder books)
- Average price of textbook replaced:
- Plumber Apprenticeship Program Level 2 Book 1 Harmonized (2021) – $105
- Plumber Apprenticeship Program Level 2 Book 2 Harmonized (2021) – $140
- Estimated savings: $245 x 54 students = $13,230
Impact Story
By Divya Chandak
Background
Audrey Curran is a Red Seal plumber and gasfitter who has been working in the plumbing industry since 2009. In 2019, she transitioned into teaching, bringing years of hands-on industry experience into the classroom. When the opportunity arose to contribute to an Open Educational Resource for plumbing apprentices, Audrey was eager to be involved.
“My role was to make sure the content aligned with the current plumbing outline,” she explained. She focused on editing for technical accuracy while also adding new material and images to strengthen clarity. Her goal was simple: ensure the resource truly reflected what apprentices need to know in today’s industry.
Inspiration and Idea
The idea for the plumbing OER originated with Audrey’s colleague, Paul Simpson, who learned about an opportunity to collaborate with TRU Open Press on creating free, open plumbing resources. When he invited Audrey to join the project, she didn’t hesitate. “It was a no-brainer for me,” she said.
For Audrey, the project aligned perfectly with her values as an instructor. She saw it as a chance to improve how plumbing is taught, making learning more accessible, engaging, and affordable for apprentices.
Collaboration and Support
Audrey credits the success of the project to the strong collaboration with the TRU Open Press team. “Dani and Marie are amazing to work with,” she said, noting that the interns involved in the project were equally impressive.
“They’re the ones who really brought the interactive parts of the book to life,” she explained. Through animations, visuals, and interactive learning activities, the team transformed technical plumbing concepts into something dynamic and engaging. “It’s honestly better than any paper textbook I’ve used.”
Challenges and Breakthroughs
One of the biggest challenges was translating hands-on plumbing skills into an online learning environment without losing clarity. “Plumbing is such a physical trade,” Audrey said. “Figuring out how to present that effectively online was tricky.”
Working closely with Open Press helped overcome that challenge. The team offered creative ideas for visualizing and explaining complex concepts, ensuring that the content remained clear and practical for learners.
A standout moment came when Audrey first saw the interactive components in action. “That was a real ‘wow’ moment,” she said. “It made me realize just how much better this could be than a traditional textbook.”
Impact on Learners and Educators
Audrey hopes the plumbing OER will help make apprenticeship training more affordable while also increasing student engagement. “Textbooks are expensive,” she noted, “and this gives apprentices access to high-quality material without that barrier.”
Another major advantage is flexibility. Because the OER can be updated at any time, it can stay aligned with changes to the Plumbing Code and evolving industry standards. “That’s huge,” Audrey said. “It benefits apprentices, instructors, and even employers by keeping training current and relevant.”
Looking Ahead
Audrey sees open education playing a transformative role in the future of trades training. “I really think OER is the future,” she said. She believes open resources have the potential to create more consistent training across Canada while staying aligned with Red Seal requirements.
“In the trades especially, this kind of resource just makes sense,” she added.
Advice for Future Creators
For anyone considering creating an OER, Audrey’s advice is simple and heartfelt: “Go for it.”
“You never know who it might help,” she said. “Your work could make training more affordable and open the door for someone who might not have been able to pursue a trade otherwise.”
Audrey’s story highlights how open education can strengthen skilled trades training, making learning more accessible, adaptable, and impactful for future apprentices.
