With the demand for skilled tradespeople on the rise, the annual Try-A-Trade event introduces students to the industry through hands-on excitement.
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Hosted at the Lloyd Ex, the annual event welcomes busloads of students eager to get hands-on experience in various career paths
“We’re expecting over 1,500 kids. We have averaged 1,400 to 1,600 kids in the past,” said Dorothy Carson, executive director of the Lloydminster Construction Association.
Local companies from across the trades, such as welding and construction, hosted immersive booths where students could test their skills firsthand
“We’ve got the employers here that can give them a little bit of information about how to become an electrician or a trades person,” she said. “We’ve got the schools that also help on the education portion and we’ve also got the safety side.
“If you’re interested in safety or knowing our industry is safe.”
With ongoing labour shortages, companies hope to get students interested in trades at a young age.
“We do have a shortage and we have a large number of projects happening within our city. We’re always looking for the trades. This is just to give the youth an idea that the trades are a first-choice option.” said Carson. “(We’re) giving them a little bit of insight as to what is involved in a trade and getting quite a few testimonials.”
Now in its 14th year, the annual event is already looking ahead to its milestone 15th anniversary next year.
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