The Trade Collective, a non-profit organization based in Evanston that connects high school students to careers in the skilled workforce, held its inaugural Skilled Trades Expo on May 5 in partnership with Evanston Township High School (ETHS).
Held at the Trade Collective, located one block from ETHS, the event was attended by 88 ETHS students and 25 parents, as well as representatives from ETHS and Oakton College. Students were offered hands-on experiences with representatives from six industry sectors: electrical, plumbing, HVAC, automotive technology, commercial landscaping, and construction management. Fourteen local skilled trade organizations, along with six trade unions, were present to meet and interact with students and their parents. Also present was Prairie State College, whose mobile training trailers provided students with an opportunity to explore skills in the manufacturing and welding sectors.
Students had the chance to operate an excavator, view engine diagnostic equipment, observe an electrical circuit with switches and lights, and explore commercial landscaping, including bricklaying demonstrations and many other hands-on experiences.
The students’ excitement was palpable! The inaugural Skilled Trades Expo was the first of many events that will enable students to explore the diverse career pathways available in the skilled trades. At the event, students were invited to indicate their career preferences, and a follow-up session for students and industry representatives was held at the Trade Collective on June 10.
The Trade Collective, established in 2024, has a full calendar of events, site visits, and informal gatherings planned for students to connect and learn from businesses in the coming school year. While many other organizations work to connect young people to the skilled trades, the Trade Collective is alone in serving high school students ages 14 to 18. For more information, visit www.thetradecollective.org or email info@thetradecollective.org.
