The Government of Alberta has partnered with Calgary’s TELUS SPARK Science Centre to inspire the next generation to explore a future career in the trades. The science center will use almost $900,000 in government funding to create spaces to help children explore science-based concepts from skilled trades like carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work. The BLUprint (Build + Learn + YOU) program is Canada’s first collaboration between skilled trades and science centers. The Calgary Construction Association is also supporting the initiative.

Officials hope the hands-on initiative will spark children’s interest in pursuing a career in the trades and ease the looming skilled labor shortage. In a press release, Minister of Advanced Education Rajan Sawhney says investing in the next generation of skilled workers is vital to 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,” said Sawhney.

Phase 1 of the BLUprint project launched in July, featuring several spaces for children of all ages. Children under eight can work on fine motor skills by making creations in the Little Builders Zone, while kids eight and up can use real tools in the Carpentry Corner. The science center also offers a Big Build Zone Monday to Thursday and two portable learning stations, Plumbing Problems and Spark Switch.

Phase 2 is planned for December. The indoor exhibits will blend virtual reality job simulators with hands-on learning, giving children more opportunities to explore the skills, concepts, and tools of the trades.

Telus Spark CEO Roderick Tate is enthusiastic about the program’s potential to create interest and engagement in science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) programs. “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. With the government’s generous support for BLUprint, not only will audiences get immersed with hands-on experiences in skilled trades activities, but they will also learn how much STEAM is incorporated into every aspect of the industry.”

The TELUS Spark Science Center is one of Calgary’s most popular children’s attractions, with 427,724 visitors and 31,000 members in 2023.