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New Alberta investment expands hands-on learning program at TELUS Spark Science Centre
A new round of provincial funding is set to give more young Albertans a closer look at careers in the skilled trades, as demand for qualified workers continues to grow across the province.
Alberta’s government has announced an additional $300,000 investment to support BLUprint, a hands-on skilled trades learning program hosted at TELUS Spark Science Centre. The program will continue operating through 2027 and is designed to introduce youth to trades careers through interactive, real-world learning experiences.
With an aging workforce and rising demand across construction and infrastructure sectors, officials say early exposure to trades education is becoming increasingly important in helping students make informed career choices.
“A strong Alberta economy relies on skilled trades. From the homes we build to the infrastructure that powers our province, tradespeople are at the centre of our growth story. Young Albertans deserve to know that the trades offer rewarding, well-paying careers – and our partnership with TELUS Spark Science Centre is an investment in making sure they do.” — Myles McDougall, Minister of Advanced Education
The latest funding builds on more than $880,000 already invested in 2024 to launch the first phases of BLUprint. Those earlier phases included outdoor “try-a-trade” activities, indoor interactive exhibits, virtual reality simulations, and hands-on learning stations designed to reflect real industry environments.
BLUprint is delivered in partnership with Calgary Construction Association and connects skilled trades exploration with science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) education.
“Our economy demands that we have a strong workforce that can match the speed of investment. A job in skilled trades is a job that puts food on the table and a roof over a head. BLUprint, in partnership with TELUS Spark, the Calgary Construction Association, and our government is helping young Albertans realize the opportunity that comes through skilled trades.” — Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration
Program organizers say BLUprint helps young people better understand apprenticeship pathways and post-secondary options while also supporting long-term workforce needs in Alberta.
TELUS Spark Science Centre President and CEO Guy Labine highlighted the importance of engaging youth through immersive learning experiences.
“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.” — Guy Labine, President and CEO
Since its launch, BLUprint has already welcomed more than 100,000 visitors, including over 40,000 students. Phase 1 began in June 2024 with outdoor try-a-trade activities such as a carpentry corner and maker stations, while Phase 2 construction began in December 2024. The final “New Builder” exhibit opened in June 2025.
Officials also point to broader labour market pressures, with estimates from Employment and Social Development Canada suggesting that approximately 700,000 of Canada’s four million skilled trades workers are expected to retire by the end of the decade.
Alberta’s government says it will continue working with industry partners, employers, and training institutions to help connect more young people with meaningful careers in the trades as demand continues to rise.
Quick Facts
- BLUprint is a partnership between TELUS Spark Science Centre and the Calgary Construction Association
- The program integrates trades education with STEAM learning opportunities
- Phase 1 launched in June 2024 with outdoor hands-on activities
- Phase 2 began construction in December 2024
- The New Builder exhibit opened in June 2025
- More than 100,000 visitors and 40,000 students have participated so far
- Roughly 700,000 skilled trades workers in Canada are expected to retire by 2030
Information for this article was sourced from the Government of Alberta website.
