More than 400 students came together for the Vancouver Regional Construction Association’s (VRCA) Bring Trades to Schools Trade Fair.

The annual trade fair is part of VRCA’s Bring Trades to Schools program, which connects young people directly with construction through interactive workshops, demonstrations, and mentorship from people working in the industry. And as the program grows, so does student interest.

Instead of learning about construction from the classroom, students picked up the tools, working alongside industry professionals to discover the range of careers available in one of B.C.’s most essential industries. From carpentry and plumbing to electrical, mechanical, and ironwork, students had the chance to try the trades for themselves.

Throughout the day, students moved between interactive stations led by construction professionals, learning directly from the people who build their communities Behind those experiences were more than 30 industry facilitators who volunteered their time, expertise, equipment, and resources to give students an authentic look at careers in construction.

“Our members and partners are the heart of this program,” said Jeannine Martin, president of the VRCA. “They didn’t just tell students about careers in construction, they showed them. They shared their skills, their equipment, their stories, and, most importantly, their time. That kind of connection can change how a young person thinks about what comes next.”

What started with just 16 students in 2024 has now connected nearly 1,300 young people with construction experiences and career possibilities they may not otherwise have had the opportunity to explore.

Bring Trades to Schools is part of VRCA’s broader Pathways to Careers in Trades and Construction initiative.