Last Wednesday, the trades department at UFV hosted an open house at the Trades & Technology Centre at Canada Education Park (CEP). There, the various trades programs at UFV showed what they have to offer.
Most of the attendees were teenagers, children, and their parents, investigating future opportunities in the trades, which are a much in demand field nowadays. Trades offered include carpentry, electrical, drafting, hosting & events planning, and others. Teachers and senior students were on hand to explain the various aspects of their programs, dispel myths and misconceptions, and exhibit the tools and products of various trades.
The automotive engineering program offered hands-on demonstrations using tools such as paint sprayers and riveters. Some of the advanced technology used in their work, such as plasma cutters, were also showcased. This diverse field includes engine diagnostics, collision repair, custom finishing, and more.
Carpentry, which was modestly stated to be “the most amazing program at UFV” by its host, is a versatile field that can find its skilled persons work anywhere where buildings are built or maintained. Not content to merely build and repair, carpentry and other trades seek to push technology in new directions. Carpentry’s pet project is the net zero energy home of tomorrow, which seeks to eliminate energy wastage through superior insulation, and other improved design aspects.
Culinary arts’ presence at the open house consisted merely of brochures, and some delicious cookies made by their students. However, if one wishes to help them hone their skills, they serve breakfast and lunch at the Trades & Technology Centre cafeteria for very reasonable prices. Their program offers unique experiences, with one student quoted in their brochure having tasted emu, rabbit, and alligator.
Other highlights included working models of a maglev rail system (electrical), and a robotic arm (robotics).
While not strictly considered a trade, UFV has its own Makerspace. The Trades & Technology Centre is equipped with a 3D printer that all students are allowed and encouraged to use, although one should first make arrangements with the faculty if one wishes to do so.
As befitting our location in B.C.’s premier farming country, UFV also has an agriculture program. A rather high number of international students choose to enroll in the agriculture program here. A new agricultural science & horticulture program, currently in its first year, shows great promise.
