Trades Outreach – Bridging the Gap in the Electrical Industry

In the world of education, the path to success has often been painted as the outcome of academia and university degrees. However, the trade sector, which offers fulfilling and lucrative career paths, remains largely overlooked by students. One trailblazer aiming to change this narrative is a passionate advocate for trade education and outreach among youth.

Teresa Hurrell, an experienced electrician and educator with over two decades in the field, has embarked on a mission to bring the world of trades to high school students. Recognizing the lack of awareness and misconceptions surrounding trade careers, Teresa, who’s also one of the instructors at the Electrical Joint Training Committee (EJTC), has initiated an outreach program aimed at educating students about the diverse opportunities available in the trade sector.

Teresa is eager to challenge stereotypes associated with trade careers in her outreach presentations. Previously perceived as an area for those struggling with academics, the trades are far from a last resort. The outreach program aims to break down these stereotypes and barriers, offering students a new perspective on trades as a viable and rewarding career option.

One of the critical aspects of Teresa’s outreach initiative is the interactive component. Students are not just told about trades; they get hands-on experience. A carefully crafted activity involving recognizable electrical components (lights and switches) that students would recognize from home, allows them to safely engage in a real-world application, turning their newfound knowledge into a tangible result.
Teresa believes in the power of personal stories. Sharing experiences like working on big projects like the SkyTrain as an apprentice resonates deeply with students, making the trades more relatable and enticing. By demonstrating the tangible impact of the trades on their lives, Teresa helps students envision a future they might not have considered.

Undoubtedly, changing mindsets is a challenge. While progress is evident among those exposed to Teresa’s outreach, the overarching perception of trades as a less desirable career path remains a hurdle. Teresa strongly urges that more government funding be allocated to trade awareness programs, making them a regular part of the high school curriculum.

As Teresa continues to deliver her outreach program around the Lower Mainland, she invites students to explore the many exciting career opportunities in the trade sector today. Teresa’s trades outreach initiative is more than a presentation; it’s a movement. A movement towards a more informed and diversified workforce where the trades are celebrated, respected, and chosen with pride.

Written by: Savannah Davis, ClearWater Communications Co.