Assiniboine partners with CARM on 3rd annual Trades Summit
March 13, 2025
The Construction Association of Rural Manitoba (CARM) and Assiniboine College’s School of Trades joined forces March 13, to host the 3rd Annual Trades Summit. Held at the Len Evans Centre for Trades and Technology on the college’s North Hill campus, the event welcomes approximately 350 high school students from nearly twenty schools across Manitoba. Throughout the day, students took in an employer tradeshow and participate in hands-on "try-a-trade" sessions.
“We were excited to welcome students into our shops and labs,” said Jim DeGraeve, Acting Dean of the School of Trades. “By allowing high school students to take part in activities that mirror real industry skills, we’re providing a practical and meaningful introduction to careers in the trades.”
As part of the event, students currently enrolled in pre-employment training at Assiniboine will also had the opportunity to bring their resumes and connect with potential employers at the tradeshow, bridging education and employment.
“This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to take the next step in their careers,” added DeGraeve. “Connecting directly with employers allows students to showcase their skills, gain valuable insights into the industry, and potentially secure employment before they even complete their training.”
The event brings together key industry partners who regularly collaborate with the college to create hands-on learning opportunities. For CARM, initiatives like this are crucial in addressing the growing demand for skilled trades professionals.
“Industries across the sector are in desperate need of skilled tradespeople,” said Shawn Wood, Executive Director of CARM. “We were thrilled to partner with the college once again to host this summit and showcase to students just how rewarding a career in the trades can be.”
Beyond the construction association, organizations like Junior Achievement Manitoba (JA Manitoba) and Colleges and Institutes Canada (CiCan) also play a vital role in the event, contributing financial support to help make these opportunities available to students.
“JA Canada inspires the next generation to realize their potential and make a positive impact in their communities. JA’s accessible and inclusive programs help youth build transferable skills in work readiness, financial health, and entrepreneurship.” said Joy Lorette, Rural Program Manager and Director of Volunteers, JA Manitoba. “JA is the development and delivery partner of World of Choices and Skilled Trades Summits. In partnership with RBC since 2022, JA Canada and JA Manitoba have worked with Colleges and Institutes of Canada – in particular, Assiniboine Community College to develop, pilot and implement Skilled Trades Summits.”
This collaboration highlights the importance of industry and educational partnerships in preparing students for successful careers in the trades.
For more information on the summit, please email [email protected].
Check out recap below!
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