This summer, René Ragetli partnered with the Ironworkers Local 97 in Burnaby, to host a Trades Exploration Camp. René is the Construction Foundation’s Director of Project Operations and uses his background in teaching to create engaging workshops for youth around BC.
Focusing the 5-day workshop on metalworking and woodwork, youth were able to get comfortable with tools and safety protocols. Utilizing the outdoor space at the shop, Rene set up stations for Welding, Oxy-Acetylene cutting, Wood Cutting, Finishing and Painting. With guidance at each station, participants seemed to be at ease with the tools by day 4, as they were coming to the point of assembly.
By day 5 the group of youth were proud to be putting the finishing touches on their own table and benches. “As this project winds down, I am hoping that this week will really spark an interest in the Trades,” Rene notes. “It has been an exciting week, and the youth were awesome — jumping in to try all the tools.”
Exploration workshops with youth are exciting; as youth build their skills, demonstrate teamwork and attention to details they are exploring possible career roads for their future. The Construction Foundation and their network are working towards developing innovative solutions for the future of trades training and skill development.
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