For Grade 12 students in British Columbia, spring is the time to celebrate high school graduation and consider future career opportunities.
While some in the graduating class of 2025 may have already decided on a career pathway, there are those still uncertain about their future. Finding a career that aligns with your interests, fits your natural skills and abilities, and provides advancement opportunities and stable income are all important considerations in making the right choice.
One challenge is finding out where to go to conduct research and learn more about career options.
In this province, is an online hub that supports experienced trades professionals and employers 鈥� a "one-stop shop" with information about trades-training opportunities available at public post-secondary institutions around B.C., including professional development offerings, micro-credentials and short-term training.
TradeUpBC recently published a list of five reasons why grads should consider a career in the skilled trades:
1. Increasing demand: "The current shortage of skilled trades across all industry sectors is expected to continue. According to B.C.'s Labour Market Outlook: 2023 Edition industry groups expect over 85,000 job openings in the skilled trades within the next 10 years."
2. Earn while you learn: "Apprenticeship programs offer paid, on-the-job training. In most programs, students spend up to 85 per cent of their time on the job."
3. Low cost of entry: "Compared to the cost to obtain a two- or four-year diploma or degree required for other careers."
4. Transferable skills: "Ability to use trades skills and experience to create alternative career pathways including but not limited to business owner, Project Manager, Chief Operations Officer, Teacher/Instructor, Finance and Accounting, Quality Assurance, Supply Chain Manager, and more."
5. Job security: "Even during economic downturns trades must support infrastructure, keep transportation moving, and ensure safe operation of equipment. Trades jobs span all industry sectors so if one sector is down, other sectors will still need skilled tradespeople. 87 per cent of BC contractors expect 2024 to be as busy, or busier compared with last year."
