Inspire students in Grades 9-12 to explore high-demand careers through hands-on and virtual experiences and hear directly from trades professionals.
The world of work is changing rapidly, yet many students have limited exposure to skilled trades and the rewarding careers they offer.
The JABC Skilled Trades program helps students in Grades 9–12 explore high-demand careers through hands-on experiences, connections with trades professionals, and exposure to apprenticeship pathways across industries including construction, automotive, manufacturing, culinary, electrical, mining, and heavy equipment.
Skilled Trades Summit
A full-day in person immersive experience.
Students explore skilled trades while connecting directly with employers, apprentices, and post-secondary training partners through hands-on learning.
Vancouver Summit:
February 23rd 2027
Location: BCIT, Burnaby Campus
Grades: 9–12
Focus: Hands-on trades exploration and industry mentorship with workshops in Electrical, Cabinetmaker, Sheet Metal, Piping, Carpentry, Automotive, Motorcycle and other in-demand trades.
Victoria Summit:
April 27th 2027
Location: Camosun College, Lansdowne Campus
Grades: 9–12
Focus: Interactive trade demonstrations and industry networking with workshops in Culinary, Electronics, Piping, Electrical, Automotive, Carpentry, Mechanical, Furniture and other in-demand trades.
Contact Mysha for more information | M.Raida@jabc.org
World of Choices: Skilled Trades — Virtual
A live, province-wide virtual career exploration event.
Classrooms connect with skilled professionals from across British Columbia.
Date: February 25, 2027
Grades: 6–12
Focus: Career stories, apprenticeship pathways, wages and opportunities, and live student Q&A with trades professionals from construction, automotive, manufacturing, culinary, mining, electrical, and heavy equipment sectors.
Contact Gloria for more information | G.Lau@jabc.org
Previous JABC Skilled Trades events have shown strong results:
85% better understood in-demand careers
77% felt more optimistic about their future
81% better understood transferable skills
98% would recommend the Summit to a friend
Help open doors for the next generation
JABC works with employers, industry associations, post-secondary institutions, and community partners to make these events possible. Support can include financial contributions, volunteer speakers, breakout session participation, or hands-on demonstrations that help students connect learning to real careers.
Contact Allison for more information| A.Hepworth@jabc.org