This week, close to 500 elementary and high school students from 50 schools under the Limestone District School Board gathered at St. Lawrence College for the 26th annual skilled trades event. The event aimed to provide students with hands-on experience in various trades, including robotics, carpentry, and other fields. Recruiters like Courtney Soucy highlighted the vibrant atmosphere, which not only offered competitions but also encouraged students to consider trades as a viable career option. With families present to support them, the students had a platform to showcase their abilities and build confidence.

Students expressed excitement about the event, sharing their experiences and challenges during the competitions. Grade 8 student Zakary Martin described the event as both fun and intellectually stimulating, noting the hands-on challenges that required problem-solving skills. The enthusiastic participation illustrated the importance of early exposure to skilled trades, which can help guide students towards potential future career paths in these fields, which are often in high demand.

The skilled trades event serves as an important initiative to inspire and inform youth about their options within the trades sector. It underlines the necessity of fostering skills in practical fields as well as raising awareness around career opportunities available to young people. As industries face labor shortages in various trades, events like these can play a critical role in shaping the next generation of skilled workers, ensuring that students feel prepared and motivated to enter these professions.