All Posts By

Amanda Smith-Weston

Jan 14
0

FTI BC featured in JOY TV’s Fraser Focus Trades Expo 2019 Video

By | Uncategorized | No Comments

JOY TV’s Fraser Focus was at Trades Expo 2019 at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds in Surrey, BC on October 23/24 and spoke with FTI BC about the finishing trades and our hands-on activities.   

Fraser Focus stated that the BC Construction Association have reported a large shortage of skilled tradespeople entering into the industry.  2/3 of the current workforce are over 45 and looking to retire.  When they do, they will take all of their knowledge and skills with them.  Seeing the need to foster and build a new workforce, Trades Expo was created. 

Trades Expo features highly skilled tradespeople who want to train youth, pass on their knowledge, and encourage trades as a career path.  The youth love the practical, hands-on demonstrations and the opportunity to try-out several trades options in one space.  Our Virtual Reality Painting Simulator, Virtual Reality Boom Lift Simulator, and Glazing Crane were popular and are featured in the video.  Please take a minute to watch our FTI BC educators and reps in action!

Dec 18
0

Surrey Christmas Bureau

By | Uncategorized | No Comments

IUPAT District Council 38 heard about the theft of Teen gifts and gift cards from the Surrey Christmas Bureau and wanted to help. 

On behalf of DC38 and FTI BC, Local 163 Rep Kevin Weston dropped off a cheque this morning for $500 to help make Christmas merry and bright for local families.  The Surrey Christmas Bureau was very happy to accept the donation and said that Unions are always supportive of them and the community.

Local 163 Rep Kevin Weston presenting a cheque to Lisa Werring, Executive Director of the Surrey Christmas Bureau

Dec 07
0

Squamish Nation Trade Fair 2019

By | Uncategorized | No Comments

FTI BC had the opportunity to participate in the Squamish Nation Trade Fair last week, along with Grant Morison from Ross Rex Industrial Painting.

We brought along our Virtual Reality Paint simulator and information about FTI apprenticeship programs, but were there primarily to assist Ross Rex Painting in their search for new workers for their company. They are very busy right now, as are all of our Industrial contractors.

The simulator was a big hit with everyone who tried it.  Even some experienced gamers couldn’t believe how realistic the visuals were!

We were thanked by the Squamish Nation for our attendance, and are looking forward to continuing working with them in partnership to deliver 3 Aboriginal Women in Trades programs in the New Year.

Nov 07
0

FTI BC’s Innovative and Engaging ‘Hands On’ Activities Popular at Trades Expo 2019

By | Uncategorized | No Comments

We received a follow up email from the organizer of Trades Expo 2019 and were happy to hear that our exhibit was well received by educators, students, and parents.

This year was their best showing, with 2,636 youth coming through the building during the 2 day event.  Over 60 high schools were represented from Chilliwack to West Vancouver and included public, independent, alternative, and home learner attendees. Trades Expo received amazing feedback from teachers and school districts regarding the event, specifically the ‘hands on’ activities, writing “KUDOS to your team.  You guys did a fantastic job!”

FTI BC educators and reps were proud to be a part of Trades Expo 2019 and to enhance the experience of all attendees!

Nov 01
0

Trades Expo 2019

By | Uncategorized | No Comments

Last week we attended the 2-day Trades Expo held at the Cloverdale Fairgrounds, in Surrey BC. Several hundred high school students from around Surrey attended our display as we introduced them to the Finishing Trades.

Our booth was always busy with students wanting to try out our Virtual Reality Spray Painter, Virtual Reality Boom and Scissor Lift, and Glazing Crane.

The organizers of the Trades Expo expressed their thanks for our participation in this years event. We were proud to show students the Finishing Trades using our innovative and engaging training tools, as well as the expertise of our trainers and reps.