Building Bright Futures: Riverside College’s Youth Trades Sampler Program

The Mission Public School District has launched the inaugural year of the SkilledTradesBC Youth Explore Trades Sampler Program at Riverside College, offering an exciting opportunity for local high school students.

The Youth Explore Trades Sampler is a full-time, one-semester program that offers a comprehensive introduction to trades, with a primary focus on the construction trades. Students gain foundational skills while working alongside skilled instructors, earning certifications, and exploring potential career paths in trades such as Carpentry, Electrical, Plumbing, Cabinet Making, Finishing, Siding, Roofing, and Insulation. The four courses completed during the semester at Riverside as part of the Youth Explore Trades Sampler program count as credits toward the Dogwood Diploma and high school graduation.

A highlight of the program for the 2024-2025 school year is the construction of two tiny structures. These structures, measuring 9' by 12', allow students to apply their newly learned skills while gaining practical experience in a collaborative environment. Teacher Brad Unger, a Red Seal Heavy Duty Mechanic and woodshop teacher with 17 years of experience, leads the program. He shares, 'Seeing kids get excited about learning is what makes this work so fulfilling.' These structures will be sold after completion this June. All proceeds from the sale of the structures will be re-invested back into the Youth Explore Trades Sampler program

The program has garnered enthusiastic support from community partners through donations of services, materials, and supplies, helping to offset costs and enrich the students’ experience. Students have expressed their excitement, noting that the program not only takes them out of traditional classroom settings but also equips them with invaluable skills for life and future career opportunities.

By exploring multiple trades, earning certifications, and gaining hands-on experience, students leave with a sense of direction and a foundation for further training or employment in the trades.

The program is open to eligible students in Mission and surrounding communities who are ready to take the first step toward an exciting future in the trades.

For more information about the program, reach out to Riverside College at www.riversidecollege.ca or (604) 814-0446.