Alberta adds $300,000 to youth trades program at TELUS Spark

By Your Southwest Media Group

Alberta is putting an additional $300,000 into a hands-on skilled trades program for young people at Calgary's TELUS Spark Science Centre.

The money supports BLUprint, a try-a-trade learning program, through 2027. The province says early exposure to the trades helps youth make informed choices about apprenticeship and other post-secondary paths, while building the workforce Alberta needs.

"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," said Advanced Education Minister Myles McDougall. "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."

The new funding builds on more than $880,000 committed in 2024 to launch the program's first two phases, which included outdoor try-a-trade activities and indoor exhibits with virtual reality simulators.

BLUprint is a partnership between TELUS Spark and the Calgary Construction Association. It ties skilled trades learning to science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics education. Phase 1 launched in June 2024 with 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. The program has drawn more than 100,000 visitors, including more than 40,000 students.

"Our economy demands 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," said Joseph Schow, minister of jobs, economy, trade and immigration.

"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," said Guy Labine, president and CEO of TELUS Spark Science Centre. "Audiences will get immersed in hands-on skilled trades activities, and they will also learn how much STEAM is built into every aspect of the industry."

Employment and Social Development Canada estimates about 700,000 of Canada's 4 million trades workers will retire by the end of the decade.