Universities and Colleges in Canada

As cliché as it may sound, the working world is truly filled with opportunity. Whether it's working on the ground, under the ground, in the sky or underwater, a career in the trades can take you practically anywhere.

"There is no doubt, trades are booming," said Murray Sharfenberg, who promotes skilled trades to Alberta high school students. "One of the issues which was identified in the mid 90s is that we were having a real shortage of skilled trades people. With the average age of certified journeyman being 48 years old, there weren't enough young people considering trades after high school to meet the needs of industry. This shortage was recognized by the industry which in turn initiated a huge push to increase the awareness of career opportunities in skilled trades to high school students."

An electrician, by trade, Scharfenberg has spring-boarded his hands-on knowledge into a career as an educator. He is quick to point out the versatility that a career in the trades provides. "In Alberta, there are over 50 skilled trades. You virtually pick the area you are interested in and it is likely that you will find a skilled trade that relates to it," said Sharfenberg, noting the accessibility to obtain journeyman status in several different trades. "Previous work experience, knowledge and skills can provide you with advanced standing when you crossover to pursue another trades qualification, if the training is related."

Both Sharfenberg and Mike Baron, who is a technical college welding instructor, admit that, as high school students, they never thought a career in the trades would lead them to their current fortes.

"During the past 20 or so years, since I've been a journeyman welder, I've had the opportunity to work at a lot of different job locations and make a whole lot of contacts," said Baron. "I've met many people who have used their welding certifications to work all over the world in all sorts of situations."

From working overseas in highly volatile environments, to welding underwater on offshore drilling rigs, to welding aircrafts, space shuttles, bridges, roller coasters and skyscrapers, Baron explains that there is always a demand for welders.

"When you look at the whole world, there is a whole lot of metal out there. Naturally, the welding trade has depth and it provides a broad range of opportunities so it can take you wherever you want it to," he said. "Oil is oil, just as water is water and metal is metal. Once you've experienced it here, you can work anywhere."

Baron and forestry instructor Ken Scullion agree that determination, perseverance and commitment are key to a successful career in the trades. But consider your decision carefully. For example, in addition to being physically fit, Scullion says that good foresters have to have a 'tough skin'.

"Whether it be working through cold, wind, rain or insects, you've got to be able to maintain the mental fortitude to complete a job under adverse conditions," he said. "A forester's work is satisfying, the