Abbotsford event shows parents why their kids should be in the trades

The construction sector is one of the biggest employers in B.C., with more than 260,000 people currently working in this industry. However, as people retire or switch careers, more and more people are needed to keep up with the demand driven by a continually growing population. That’s why the Canadian Home Builders’ Association of BC is hosting a free event on Nov. 25 that will teach both parents and their children about the value of entering the construction industry. This event features construction professionals sharing the benefits of working in the skilled trades, how the industry has changed in recent years, and what the future likely holds for construction workers. A 2024 report from the provincial government predicted that the construction sector had the most optimistic future for employment opportunities among any skilled trade. According to the Labour Market Outlook 2024 report, there will be approximately 12,300 job openings in B.C. for construction helpers and labourers between 2024 and 2034, plus another 11,880 openings for carpenters. These numbers are significantly higher than any other industry in the report, with the next-highest one being the 9,160 job opportunities for cooks. This is in line with the growth that the construction industry has been seeing in recent years, according to Statistics Canada. In 2024, there were approximately 246,800 people working in construction in B.C., which is the closest that the province has gotten to reaching pre-pandemic levels that exceeded 250,000 workers. The provincial government is also encouraging more people to follow this career trajectory and recently committed to investing $241 million into trades training. Premier David Eby said that doubling the existing trades training fund within the next three years will benefit both those moving into skilled trades as well as the province as a whole. “This is about creating opportunity – giving more British Columbians the chance to train for good jobs with bigger paycheques and a more secure future,” said Eby. “Across the province, major projects in construction, clean energy, mining, and advanced technology are moving forward, and we need to make sure British Columbians benefit. By dramatically expanding skills training, we ensure projects can move without delay, and that British Columbians are first in line for these jobs.” The upcoming seminar at Abbotsford Arts Centre will give people a better understanding of whether pursuing this career trajectory is right for them or their children. Attending the Canadian Home Builders’ Association of BC’s event is free, but registration is required and can be found at chbabc.org/construction-careers-what-every-parent-should-know. The event takes place from 5:45 to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 25.