Empowering the Future: Female in Trades Exploration Field Trip with Mission Secondary School
- czpasslane
- Aug 11
- 3 min read
I was so proud to be a part of a meaningful and memorable two-day field trip for female students from Mission Secondary School, focused on exploring career pathways in the skilled trades and industries where women are still underrepresented. Led by dedicated educators Carolyn Chezzi and Alexandra Thompson, the main goal of this excursion was to introduce students to career and training opportunities in trades—while also giving them a taste of real-world independence options for their futures.
Thanks to a generous $5,000 grant from the BC Centre for Women in the Trades (BCCWITT), the trip was fully funded—covering accommodation, meals, and transportation for every student. We’re incredibly grateful for BCCWITT’s support in making this experience accessible and impactful. The students were able to focus fully on learning, asking questions, and immersing themselves in the trades environments we visited—without any financial burden.
Adding a fun and functional touch to the trip, Liqui Moly generously provided some "swag" for the students—including drawstring bags that quickly proved to be essential. The bags came in handy for carrying steel toe boots, making it easy for students to switch footwear throughout the day as we moved between schools, job sites, and city streets. But the surprise favorite? A small tube of “lip lubricant” that got more than a few laughs and a lot of use—my personal favorite, especially after a long day outdoors! We also want to give a special thank-you to Amazing Women in Automotive, who donated nail files—a small but thoughtful reminder that embracing a career in the trades doesn’t mean giving up your personal style. These touches added comfort, practicality, and a bit of flair to the trip, reinforcing the idea that tradeswomen can be skilled, strong, and authentically themselves.
Day 1: Exploring Trades & Transportation
We kicked things off with a bus ride to BCIT’s Burnaby campus, where students were given an incredible opportunity to explore a wide variety of trades programs. Our tour was led by Amanda Koehler, Department Head of the Motorcycle Technician program. Amanda not only shared her deep knowledge and enthusiasm, but also brought a personal connection to the experience—she and Coralee had first met during BCCWITT's leadership training in Victoria the previous year. It was a full-circle moment that highlighted the strength of the women-in-trades network.
The students were engaged and inspired as Amanda guided us through the training facilities and programs. A pizza lunch on campus offered everyone a chance to reflect on the tour and connect over their first impressions of the trades world.
In the afternoon, the group toured Seaspan’s shipyard in North Vancouver, where they saw the massive scale and precision involved in marine construction. It was a unique look at an industry that few had previously considered—and one that left a big impression.
From there, we hopped on the SeaBus into downtown Vancouver—an important part of the trip’s mission to show students how they can navigate the Lower Mainland for work or school. We checked into the Century Plaza Hotel, then wrapped up the day with dinner at Red Robin, sharing laughs and stories over burgers and fries.
Day 2: Hands-On Inspiration & Industry Insight
The next morning, we visited Vancouver Community College (VCC) for a guided tour led by Ronnie Nugent, Instructional Assistant and Red Seal Chef. Ronnie shared his expertise and passion with the students as they explored various levels of the culinary training program, getting a behind-the-scenes look at how students learn and progress through their education.
To top it off, we were treated to a delicious 3-course meal prepared by VCC’s culinary students—a memorable and delicious way to showcase hands-on learning at its best.
In the afternoon, we headed to Heidelberg Materials on Granville Island. The students were equipped with personal safety gear we were able to take home with us. The hats quickly became a favorite keepsake from the trip. The tour offered insights into concrete production, materials science, and the many roles involved in the construction supply chain.
To end our trip, we boarded the West Coast Express for a scenic ride back to Mission—giving students a first-hand experience of regional transit and how it could play a part in their future work or education commute.
More Than a Field Trip
This trip was so much more than a school outing—it was an opportunity to spark confidence, broaden horizons, and break down stereotypes. By visiting post-secondary institutions, touring industry sites, and experiencing city life, these students got a powerful introduction to the opportunities that trades can offer.
A heartfelt thank-you goes to BCCWITT, Amanda Koehler, Ronnie Nugent, our hosts at BCIT, Seaspan, VCC, Heidelberg Materials, and the educators Carolyn Chezzi and Alexandra Thompson who made this trip possible. With continued support, we can keep empowering the next generation of women in trades—and building a future that’s more inclusive, skilled, and inspired.
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