NEWS RELEASE

Calgary Construction Association Partners with TELUS Spark Science Centre and the Government of Alberta, Announces Historic Investment into Spark’s (BLU)print Program aimed at promoting skilled trades for youth

Calgary, AB – July 31, 2024 – The Calgary Construction Association (CCA) is pleased to announce its partnership and historic investment with TELUS Spark Science Centre and the Government of Alberta, cumulating in the launch a pioneering program designed to inspire youth to pursue careers in the skilled trades. As Alberta’s population and economy continue to grow rapidly, demand for skilled tradespeople continues to increase, highlighting the need to encourage youth to consider the skilled trades as a career path. To that end, the Calgary Construction Association Education Fund is investing $100,000 towards the (BLU)print Program – the largest single investment made by the Fund since its inception in 2001.

About the Program

Recognizing the critical need to address the skilled labour shortage and invest in future tradespersons, the CCA is dedicated to fostering the next generation of trades professionals. Our partnership with TELUS Spark Science Centre will create a series of exploration spaces called BLUprint—standing for “Building, Learning, and You.” These spaces are designed to educate youth about trades-based science concepts in a fun and engaging way. Featuring hands-on activities related to carpentry, plumbing, and electrical trades, BLUprint integrates STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education.

Phased Approach

• Phase 1: Soft-launched on July 11, 2024, and now open to the public, inviting Albertans of all ages to explore the outdoor space and participate in activities related to skilled trades exploration.
• Phase 2: Launching in December 2024, includes indoor exhibits that will delve into the trades using a blend of virtual reality job simulators and hands-on activities to meet the interests of kids of all ages.

Quotes

“The Calgary Construction Association is pleased to support TELUS Spark’s skilled trades and STEAM installation. This initiative underscores our ongoing commitment to highlighting the rewarding careers offered in construction and our efforts to cultivate a vibrant, skilled workforce that is essential for the growth, success, and sustainability of the construction industry.” – Bill Black, President & CEO, Calgary Construction Association.

“Investing in the next generation of skilled tradespeople is crucial for Alberta’s future. By partnering with TELUS Spark Science Centre, we are creating engaging and educational experiences that inspire young people to explore rewarding careers in the trades. This initiative not only addresses the growing demand for skilled workers but also highlights the importance of STEAM education in building a competitive and innovative workforce.” – Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Advanced Education

Quick Facts

• With more than 47 apprenticeship programs available in Alberta, there are a wealth of career opportunities for young people in the skilled trades.
• In the next decade, 700,000 of the four million Canadians who work in the trades are expected to retire.
• According to data analyzed by Alberta Jobs, Economy and Trade, there were 7,560 construction trades and management job vacancies in the Calgary economic region in Q3 2023, representing a staggering one-quarter of all job vacancies (30,500) in the city.

About Calgary Construction Association

Formed in 1944, the Calgary Construction Association (CCA) is a professional association of over 850 member companies throughout the Calgary region. Through our partnerships with the residential and commercial construction industry, we represent over 100,000 Calgarians employed in the industry and their families. As we celebrate our 80^th anniversary and as an advocate for the construction industry, our mission is to help our members thrive now and into the future.

For more information, please contact:

Frano Cavar                                                                                                                                                                                   Director of Public Affairs and External Relations, Calgary Construction Association

franocavar@cgyca.com                                                                                                                                                403.389.1998