Try-a-Trade Connects 1,400 Students with Skilled Trades Careers

On October 9, 2025, we welcomed over 1,400 students to the Satsop business park for this year's Try-a-Trade event. The workforce development event brought together labor unions, construction trades, apprenticeship programs, and industry professionals for hands-on learning.

Students operated cranes and backhoes, welded metal, laid brick, and used jackhammers with help from instructors. Scissor lifts and tool stations created an environment where students experienced real trade work firsthand.

Students connected directly with union representatives, apprenticeship coordinators, and employers. One student said they were excited by "talking to the different workers about learning how to be an apprentice and getting different types of information." Conversations like these open pathways to careers that offer steady, rewarding work.

The event strengthened partnerships among 33 schools, learning centers, regional industry leaders, and the trades community. Together, we created awareness and opportunity for students exploring high-demand jobs shaping our region's future.

Participating Schools and Learning Centers

Thank you to our participating schools and learning centers: Aberdeen High School, Centralia High School, Chehalis Middle School, Chehalis Tribe K–12 Education Program, Elma High School, Grapeview School, Gravity Learning Center, Harbor Learning Center, H.E.A.R.T. High School, Hoquiam High School, Lake Quinault School District, Mary M. Knight High School, Montesano High School, Napavine School District, Naselle-Grays River Valley High School, North Beach High School, North River School District, Ocosta High School, Olympic Academy at Expedition Behavioral Education, Raymond Jr./Sr. High School, Rochester High School, Shelton School District, South Puget Intertribal Planning Agency, Taholah School District, Timberline High School, Toledo High School, Tumwater School District, W.F. West High School, Wa He Lut Indian School, White Pass Jr./Sr. High School, Willapa Valley Schools, Wishkah Valley Elementary/High School, and our homeschoolers and independent registrants.

Partners Make It Possible

The Capital STEM Alliance connects students with hands-on learning experiences—from apprenticeships and internships to college programs. This event came together because partners shared their time, staff, materials, equipment, and knowledge to create new opportunities. Thank you to all the trades, companies, and organizations that showed students what's possible.