Image: BC Construction Association / Chris Atchison, President, BCCA, (left), Heather Elliott, Acting Vice Principal of Career Education, School District #33, and Matt Pitcairn, President, BC Road Builders and Heavy Construction Association, display Honour the Work materials at the launch of the pilot program in Chilliwack.

By Mike Vanden Bosch

Skilled trades education program

BCCA pilot project in Chilliwack to promote skilled trades to elementary students

May 6, 2025 | 8:58 AM

CHILLIWACK — The British Columbia Construction Association and a like-minded partner agency will launch a pilot phase of the “Honour the Work” initiative this month in Chilliwack to encourage more elementary students to enter the skilled trades sector.

In a statement, the BCCA says it is proud to partner with the BC Road Builders and Heavy Construction Association in an innovative program that enhances STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) education through hands-on activity kits and books meant to inspire elementary school students.

BCCA says the Honour the Work initiative is intended to foster creativity, critical thinking and problem-solving skills among young learners. The comprehensive kits encompass detailed guides for educators, lesson plans, instructional videos and various resources, all aligned with British Columbia curriculum standards.

The initial pilot of the Honour the Work initiative will be conducted in the Chilliwack School District, with the goal of expanding to additional school districts in the next school year. Some of the expansion will be supported through an industry fundraising drive. The goal is to raise $550,000 to help supply 500 classrooms and over 21,000 students with access to Honour the Work curriculum. The program hopes to to encourage future generations to consider careers in the construction trades.

“We are thrilled to launch the Honour the Work program, which we believe will make a significant impact on students’ education and career aspirations,” said BCCA president Chris Atchison. “By exposing students to the exciting possibilities within the construction industry, we are not only supporting their educational journey but also contributing to the growth and sustainability of our industry.”

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Matt Pitcairn, president of the BC Road Builders and Heavy Construction Association, echoed Atchison’s sentiments. “The Honour the Work initiative is a testament to our commitment to education and community development. By providing engaging and interactive resources, we hope to ignite a passion for the construction trades among young students, paving the way for a skilled and dedicated workforce in the future.”

Heather Elliott, acting vice principal of career education for SD33, says the district looks forward to seeing the project in action throughout Chilliwack schools.

“We are pleased to be a part of this innovative pilot project, that aims to engage students with hands on learning, future career exploration and cross-curricular content. It is an exciting opportunity to bring community partners into the classroom in a meaningful way,” Elliot said.

For more information about this initiative please visit: bccassn.com/honour-the-work/.