05/21/2026
Figuring out “what comes next” after school can feel overwhelming. One day, life feels structured and clear and the next, students are expected to make decisions about careers and the future. That’s why creating opportunities for hands-on career exploration is so important.
Students from .e.lazerte joined JA of Northern Alberta at for the Skilled Trades Summit: a day filled with hands-on workshops, industry conversations & insights into the skilled trades.
Students shared how much they loved getting to try things for themselves: activities,questions, and glimpses into what different trade careers can look like. Sometimes all it takes is one experience to spark curiosity, confidence, or a future pathway that may not have been considered before.
Highlights of the day were hearing from amazing panelists speaking candidly about their own journeys, the twists and turns, and the advice they wish they had heard. Those honest conversations matter. They help young people realize there’s no single path to success and the careers can evolve in exciting and unexpected ways.
A huge thank you to & for their support in making this event possible.
And thank you to the sponsors who helped bring thir experience to life:National Founding sponsor , along with JA supporting partners .mobility and
As well as the incredible people and organizations who generously shared their time and expertise throughout the day!
✨Panelists: Drew Frost, Jake Dowling, and Leah Poetzsch.
✨ Industry representatives:
The future workforce is changing, and opportunities in the skilled trades continue to grow across Alberta and Canada. Creating spaces where students can explore, ask questions, and build confidence in their futures has never been more important.
Missed the event? There’s still another opportunity to explore the trades! JA Canada is hosting a Virtual Trades Summit on June 5th packed within sight, inspiration, and career exploration opportunities (QR registration in last photo).
