Want lucrative, in-demand jobs? Hamilton skilled trades fair hopes to spark students’ interest

Students from grades 7 to 12 will have a chance to learn more about the skilled trades, which will need over 100,000 workers this decade in Ontario, during a major career fair in October.

Level Up!, Ontario’s skilled trades career fair, is expanding to five more cities including Hamilton and will have more exhibitors, the province said in a press release today (Aug. 31). 

Hamilton will host the event on Oct. 17 and 18.

Now in its second year, Level Up! highlights 144 skilled trades, from electricians to boilermakers, according to the province. The fair will offer over 25,000 students in grades 7 to 12, as well as parents and jobseekers the chance to learn about these trades through interactive exhibitions and hands-on activities. Tradespeople and local employers will be present to provide information and meet with attendees.

“For far too long, parents and students have been told the only way to succeed in life is by going to university – this is simply not true,” said Monte McNaughton, minister of labour, immigration, training and skills development, in a statement. “There are lucrative and purpose-driven careers waiting in the skilled trades where you can help build our province. … we are giving more students the opportunity to learn about the life-changing careers in skilled trades that come with defined pensions and benefits.”

“No high school student should miss attending the Level Up! skilled trades career fair that’s being held in their area. Level Up! is a great way to experience the full array of skilled trades careers and to see if one is right for you,” said Ian Cunningham, president of the Council of Ontario Construction Associations, in a statement.

Grade 7 to 12 students interested in attending the career fairs can contact their school board’s Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program recruiter, a teacher or school guidance counsellor to register.

The province said nearly 300,000 jobs are going unfilled and one in five new job openings in Ontario will be in the skilled trades by 2025.

“Choosing the right career path can be a challenge for young people, and we’re here to help,” said Melissa Young, CEO and registrar of Skilled Trades Ontario, in a statement. “The Level Up! career fairs are a chance to try your hand at different trades, explore your passion, and learn about the pathways into a rewarding career.”