The TRU–SD73 Mobile Trades Unit (MTU) is bringing hands‑on skilled trades education directly to students in Logan Lake this semester.

Since 2007, the Mobile Trades Unit (MTU), which is jointly owned by SD73 and Thompson Rivers University (TRU), has delivered Level 1 and Level 2 Welding Certification programs to rural communities, including Clearwater, Barriere, and Logan Lake. The travelling trailer has provided hundreds of secondary students and adult learners with access to industry‑recognized training and meaningful career pathways close to home.

The TRU–SD73 Mobile Trades Unit is now fully installed in Logan Lake. 10 SD73 students and two adult learners have begun their five‑month Foundation-level Welding Training program, gaining hands‑on experience and early exposure to skilled trades careers through the Youth Train in Trades program.

Staff, students, and community celebrated the start of this year’s Mobile Trades Unit Welding program with a grand opening event on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Logan Lake Elementary‑Secondary School. The celebration included a symbolic chain “ribbon cutting,” tours of the welding trailer, and a barbecue for students, staff, families, and community and industry partners who helped make this year’s MTU program possible.

Career Development is a key priority in the District Strategic Plan, with a focus on ensuring every learner graduates knowing who they are and having a plan for who they aim to become. Mobile training programs like the MTU play an important role in achieving this goal by providing equitable access to hands‑on learning, industry‑ready skills, and real‑world career pathways—particularly in rural communities.

Addressing students at the grand opening, Kerry Gairdner, District Vice‑Principal of Career Programs, highlighted the significance of the opportunity ahead of them. “Students, welcome to the start of your career journey,” she shared. “You’re not just stepping into a mobile trades unit—you’re stepping into a trade that quite literally built the world around us. From bridges and buildings to pipelines and fabrication shops, welding is the backbone of industry, and you are now part of that legacy.”

By beginning skilled trades training in Grade 12, students are gaining a meaningful head start.

“While many students are still exploring their options, you are already building real skills, gaining hands‑on experience, and investing in a future that offers stability and opportunity,” Gairdner added. “Trades demand focus, discipline, and resilience—but every challenge you overcome prepares you for the job site and for life.”

Community support was a strong theme throughout the grand opening event. A Logan Lake parent shared appreciation for the investment being made in local youth. “Thank you so much for investing in these kids—you are showing them that you believe in them, and that’s a huge thing for them to feel.”

For students, the program represents more than technical training. Bryson Cowell, a Grade 12 student, spoke about the broader impact of the opportunity. “For many students, this program is more than a class. It is a pathway to apprenticeships, employment, financial independence, and pride in creating something tangible and lasting,” Bryson shared. “The sparks that fly in our welding shop represent possibility—and those sparks are lit because of your belief in students.”

Logan Lake Principal Ron Collins emphasized the power of community collaboration in making this year’s program a reality. “It is truly an honour to celebrate something that represents opportunity, perseverance, and the power of community,” he shared. “This offering was made possible by generous donations from community members and industry partners who recognize that investing in youth is investing in the future workforce and future leaders.”

Students shared personal reasons for enrolling in the program and what it means to have this opportunity offered in their hometown.

Grade 12 student Naitt explained that family influence and a desire to enter the workforce motivated his decision. “My older brother is a welder, and he persuaded me to do this,” he said. “I wanted to get out of high school and start working, and I saw this as an opportunity to do that.”

Another Grade 12 student, Hunter, described how early exposure sparked his interest. “I did a welding program at TRU in Grade 8, and my dad is also in welding,” he shared. “Hearing stories from him really got me intrigued.”

For many students, the local setting has added meaning. “It’s special because it’s our hometown,” one student noted. “We know everyone, and we can support each other.”

Faith Smyth, a Grade 12 student who previously completed the Hairdressing program at NorKam Secondary, shared how the MTU has expanded her future plans. “I think it’s super cool to have this opportunity in Logan Lake, especially for kids who can’t go to Kamloops,” she said. “This program is a really good step for our future. I’m planning on finishing this, getting my Red Seal, and then going into Heavy Duty—with hairdressing on the side. I’m just super grateful I got this opportunity.”

MTU Welding Instructor Michael Grainger sees strong motivation among students. “They all want to be here,” he shared. “They know this is the start of a path toward a great job and being able to support themselves and their families. Welding also cross‑trains well with other trades—it opens a lot of doors.”

Over the coming months, students will continue developing skills that prepare them for apprenticeships, employment, and further training. The success of the TRU–SD73 Welding Mobile Trades Unit in Logan Lake reflects the impact of strong partnerships, community support, and a shared commitment to student success. By bringing industry‑recognized training directly to rural communities, the Kamloops-Thompson School District continues to ensure that all learners—regardless of geography—have access to opportunities that help them build skills, confidence, and a clear path beyond graduation.

Story provided by Chelsea Isenor, Director of Communications & Board Administration