With growing demand for skilled trades workers and an aging workforce, it is more important than ever to connect young people to career opportunities in the trades early. Alberta’s government is supporting more youth in exploring rewarding careers through hands-on learning, with an additional $300,000 investment to support BLUprint, a hands-on skilled trades learning program at TELUS Spark Science Centre through 2027.
“A strong Alberta economy relies on skilled trades. From the homes we build to the infrastructure that powers our province, tradespeople are at the centre of our growth story. Young Albertans deserve to know that the trades offer rewarding, well-paying careers – and our partnership with TELUS Spark Science Centre is an investment in making sure they do.”
This investment builds on the more than $880,000 investment made in 2024 to launch the first two phases of BLUprint, including outdoor try-a-trade activities and indoor exhibits featuring virtual reality simulators and hands-on learning.
By introducing young people to the trades early on, BLUprint helps them make informed decisions about apprenticeship education and other post-secondary pathways while supporting the skilled workforce Alberta needs now and in the future.
“Our economy demands that we have a strong workforce that can match the speed of investment. A job in skilled trades is a job that puts food on the table and a roof over a head. BLUprint, in partnership with TELUS Spark, the Calgary Construction Association, and our government is helping young Albertans realize the opportunity that comes through skilled trades.”
“Engaging youth is one of TELUS Spark’s specialties, especially when it comes to creating innovative experiences that build excitement and curiosity about the future. With the government’s generous support for BLUprint, not only will audiences get immersed with hands-on experiences in skilled trades activities, but they will also learn how much STEAM is incorporated into every aspect of the industry.”
Alberta’s government will continue working with industry, employers and training partners to help meet labour market demand and connect people with rewarding careers in the skilled trades.
Quick facts
- BLUprint is a partnership between TELUS Spark and the Calgary Construction Association that connects skilled trades learning with science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics education and gives children and youth opportunities to explore the trades.
- Phase 1 of BLUprint launched in June 2024 with outdoor try-a-trade activities, including a carpentry corner, toddler zone, activation carts and Maker Mondays led by tradespeople.
- Phase 2 began construction in December 2024, and the final New Builder exhibit opened in June 2025.
- BLUprint has welcomed more than 100,000 visitors, including more than 40,000 students.
Employment and Social Development Canada estimates approximately 700,000 of Canada’s four million trades workers will retire by the end of the decade.