A recent work experience visit to Viaduct Sheet Metal by high school student Mason has opened the door for a potential career pathway for not only him, but his father Ricky, as well. The pair’s Viaduct experience is not only a great example of a feel good story, but a testament to the opportunities available

The Construction Foundation of BC and students from Chemainus Secondary School’s ‘Intro to Trades’ class participated in a two-day workshop this month. Students were introduced to the automotive industry through a presentation and multiple, hands-on activities to get a small taste of what working in the Automotive industry would look like and require. With safety

The Construction Foundation of BC’s Skills Ready initiative held Professional Day workshops this past week with School District No. 78 (Fraser Cascades). Director of Project Operations René Ragetli introduced small groups of educators to trades-related activities that can benefit their classrooms. Two sessions were developed to encourage teachers to try additional hands-on activities in their

Johanna has found a stable career as a carpenter with Greyback Construction, allowing her to accomplish both her life and career goals, all while preparing for her future. Her journey as a tradeswoman began after her curiosity was peaked from viewing a poster advertising trades at her son’s school. Johanna had experience in a number

Carpenter Drake Sylvestre recently received his carpenter Red Seal certificate, married his wife and welcomed his first child all within the last year. The enthusiastic young carpenter has made major leaps in his career in an increasingly challenging environment brought on by a global pandemic.  Construction Foundation of BC Career Catalyst Dave Lovisa chatted with

Maintenance Electrician Dustin Hance sat down with Skills Ready Career Catalyst Dave Lovisa for an ‘Industry Interview’. Hance began his electrical career in 2012 and has since progressed to earn his Red Seal certification He shared his career journey, the barriers he has faced, plans for the future and advice for aspiring tradespeople in his

Team Construction Management’s Chuck Cullen has found a rewarding career as a Senior Project Manager with the Kelowna-based construction outfit. Since moving to British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, Cullen has progressed from an entry-level labourer to a Gold Seal certified Project Manager over the course of his career. Cullen quickly realized that ‘digging holes’ and ‘carrying

Skills Ready has kicked off the Fall Season with a total of six workshops in late September, providing participants with an intro to metalwork and the trades careers in both Vancouver and Prince George areas. Skills Ready Director of Project Operations, Rene Ragetli is joined by sheet metal worker Sheila Sadler for the Lower Mainland workshops, while the

Julie Patterson is the owner-operator of Julie Patterson Finishing Carpentry, located in Kelowna. Twelve and a half years after starting her career as a labourer, she is operating her own successful business. SUBSCRIBE TO OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL Following in her mother’s footsteps of running her own business and a desire to work in an industry

Sheila is a ticketed Sheet Metal worker at Viaduct Sheet Metal Ltd. in Surrey with 17 years of experience. She came into her career through a desire to provide for her family, curiosity and good luck and shared her experience of becoming a sheet metal worker with Skills Ready. Sheila struggled as a youth in

We spoke with Mott Electric third year apprentice Yoni about his time as an electrician and some of the experiences he’s had in his electrical career to date. What’s your name and where are you from?My name is Yoni, I’m from the Lower mainland in Richmond and I work for Mott Electric as an electrician.

The Skills Ready Project of the Week Spotlight for the week of April 17, 2020 was submitted by Mr. Clint Maltais of Peter Greer Elementary School. Mr. Maltais’ project is a Pollinator Hotel for bees, and is appropriate for students from Grades 4-6.  Using a mix of nails, mesh wire, staples, wood glue, food grade