By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | April 14, 2025

Abbotsford is proudly taking center stage this April as the host city for the 2025 Skills Canada BC Provincial Trades and Technology Competition. Set for April 16 at the Tradex convention centre, this high-energy event will bring together approximately 600 students from across British Columbia, all showcasing their remarkable talents in trades and technical skills that power our province.

This isn't just a competition—it's a celebration of possibility, innovation, and the bright future of our workforce.

A Hub of Skill and Inspiration

Each of the 600 student competitors has earned their place at this provincial showdown through local and regional qualifying events, including in the Upper Fraser Valley. These are students who have put in the hours, mastered their techniques, and are ready to compete in over 50 skilled categories ranging from traditional trades like carpentry, electrical, and plumbing, to emerging technologies such as robotics, 3D animation, and graphic design.

Abbotsford’s Tradex will be transformed into a bustling hub of youthful energy and technical mastery, as young professionals put their skills to the test under the watchful eyes of industry judges and the curious public.

Spotlight on Abbotsford

Hosting this event is a major point of pride for Abbotsford. As one of the province’s fastest-growing cities and an economic gateway to the Lower Mainland, Abbotsford’s strong connection to both agriculture and skilled trades makes it an ideal location for a showcase of this kind. It’s also a reflection of the city’s ongoing investment in youth, education, and industry partnerships.

Beyond its economic relevance, the event fosters a sense of community pride—one that resonates with Abbotsford’s longstanding support for trades education through institutions like the University of the Fraser Valley and local high school programs.

Interactive Experiences and Career Pathways

The competition is open to the public and includes the highly anticipated Pathways to Careers Showcase, where visitors can explore interactive booths, connect with local employers, and speak with representatives from post-secondary institutions.

Attendees of all ages will have the chance to “Try-a-Skill” at hands-on stations, where they can experience welding, bricklaying, pipe trades, and more. It’s an engaging and inspiring opportunity for young visitors to discover a potential future in the trades—especially at a time when BC is facing a growing need for skilled workers.

Admission is free, and the showcase will run from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., offering a unique experience for students, educators, employers, and families alike.

More Than Medals: Launching Careers

Winners of the provincial competition will go on to represent Team BC at the Skills Canada National Competition, to be held May 29-30, 2025, in Regina, Saskatchewan. From there, Canada’s top tradespeople could find themselves competing on the world stage at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026—a global event highlighting the best emerging talent from around the world.

For many of the participants, Skills Canada is more than just a competition—it’s the first step in a lifelong career. Past competitors have gone on to become Red Seal-certified tradespeople, successful entrepreneurs, and leaders in their fields.

Building Local Opportunity, One Skill at a Time

In a world where post-secondary paths often emphasize university education, Skills Canada BC reminds us of the equal value of hands-on learning, applied knowledge, and the trades that quite literally build our communities. For Abbotsford, this event is not just about competition—it’s about showing young people what’s possible, right here at home.

As the city welcomes these bright and determined students, there’s a collective sense of pride—not only in hosting such a high-profile event, but in being a part of their journey.

How to Attend

Whether you’re a parent, educator, employer, or simply a supporter of the trades, the Skills Canada BC Competition at Tradex is a not-to-be-missed event. Come witness excellence, discover future talent, and be part of a moment that’s shaping the future of our workforce—right here in Abbotsford.

For event details, competition schedules, and maps, visit: skillscanada.bc.ca

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.

She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jhansen@waypoint.ca. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

Tags:  #Jenny Holly Hansen #Abbotsford is Awesome #Skills Canada BC Provincial Trades and Technology Competition #Tradex Convention Centre #Pathways to Careers Showcase #Skills Canada National Competition #WorldSkills Shanghai 2026

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