Unleash your potential: Okanagan College invites community to "Try a Trade"

By College Relations | April 3, 2024
           

try a trade poster with images of tools in the background

Are the trades for you? Have you ever felt the call of a different career path? Are you curious about trades but unsure where to start? Look no further! 

Okanagan College (OC), in partnership with the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Central Okanagan (CHBA-CO), is thrilled to announce its upcoming "Try a Trade" event, inviting all eager learners and aspiring tradespeople to explore a world of possibilities on April 25 at OC’s Kelowna campus.

“Okanagan College is pleased to partner with CHBA-CO to offer the Try a Trade event. This event will provide an opportunity for high school students and mature students to get hands-on experience in a variety of trades,” says Stephen Speers, Dean of Trades and Apprenticeship. “An education in trades not only offers students an opportunity to give back to their community every day, but also provides them with in-demand employment and opportunities for their duration of their career.”

Designed as an immersive evening, the event promises to ignite your passion for hands-on learning and unveil the exciting opportunities awaiting you in the trades industry. 

Hosted at the state-of-the-art Trades facility on Okanagan College’s Kelowna campus, located at 1000 K.L.O. Road, this event is a golden chance to step into the shoes of skilled tradespeople and embark on a journey of discovery. Students will get a chance to try carpentry, electrical, sheet metal, refrigeration or plumbing in up to three, 30-minute hands on sessions led by Okanagan College and supported by local trades businesses.

“A career in trades today offers a path to economic independence while also allowing people to directly solve one of our largest social issues – our housing shortage,” says Daniel Winer, Executive Director for the CHBA-CO. “Students that come out of programs like carpentry or plumbing often graduate debt free or even get paid to complete their training. These jobs turn into project managers, site supervisors, and even business owners. We talk about how artificial intelligence is taking away jobs, but it can’t build a house.”

Why attend?

Hands-on exploration: Ever wondered what it's like to wire or build? At "Try a Trade," you'll roll up your sleeves and dive into various trades activities under the guidance of industry experts. From carpentry to electrical work, electrical to plumbing, this event offers a taste of it all. All work is overseen by trained mentors. 

Meet the experts: Rub shoulders with seasoned professionals who will share their insights, tips and experiences, giving you a firsthand look into the world of trades. Get answers to your burning questions and gain valuable advice on how to kickstart your career in this dynamic field.

Discover your passion: Whether you're a high school student exploring future career paths or an adult considering a career change, "Try a Trade" empowers you to explore diverse trades disciplines and uncover your true calling. Who knows? You might just find your dream career waiting for you.

Event details

Date: Thursday, April 25, 2024
Time: 5:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Location: Okanagan College – Trades facility, 1000 K. L. O. Rd, Kelowna, BC V1Y 4X8
Admission: FREE! All ages welcome

Register on Eventbrite

Don't miss this opportunity to ignite your passion, expand your horizons and chart a course toward a rewarding career in the trades. Register today to secure your spot and take the first step towards a brighter future.


About Okanagan College

With more than 20 different Trades and Apprenticeship programs, Okanagan College is a leading institution dedicated to providing quality education and training that empowers individuals to succeed in their chosen fields. With a commitment to excellence, innovation and community engagement, Okanagan College prepares students for success in the workforce and beyond. Learn more at okanagan.bc.ca/trades-and-apprenticeship.

About the Canadian Home Builders’ Association Central Okanagan

CHBA-CO is the voice of the residential construction industry in the Central Okanagan. Representing over 350 members, the CHBA-CO advocates on behalf of and provides education and community-building opportunities for builders, renovators, interior designers, and the suppliers and trade companies they employ. For more information, visit chbaco.com.



Tags: Trades

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