Young women spark their futures at Hands-On Trades Camp in Lethbridge

CAREERS The Next Generation is bringing hands-on career exploration to southern Alberta with its Young Women in Trades and Technologies Camp, a two-day, immersive experience designed to introduce participants to high-demand careers in the skilled trades. 

Organizers say female students in Grades 10–12 will step into a wide range of industries, gaining practical experience in autobody repair, sheet metal, welding, plumbing, culinary, electrical, carpentry, and digital media technology. 

Guided by female apprentices, officials say participants will use real tools, build new skills, and see firsthand what a future in the trades can look like. They will also learn about the next steps in their career journey, including how to transition from high school into apprenticeship pathways. 

Organizers say this experience comes at a pivotal moment. According to the Alberta Occupational Outlook, the province is projected to need 321,400 skilled trades workers by 2033. While progress is being made, officials note that women still represent only about 9 per cent of Alberta’s skilled trades workforce.