Hands on career exploration returns with the MSW Trade and Construction Expo

Metro South West Youth Connections is bringing back its annual Trade and Construction Expo on Thursday, April 2, 2026. The event is designed to give high school students a hands on, immersive way to explore trade and construction careers through engaging activities and direct connections with employers and training partners.

The Trade and Construction Expo serves as a platform for students to see what different careers actually look like, ask questions in real time, and learn what steps can lead to a job after graduation. This year’s event will welcome more than 500 students from across the Metro South West region, with exhibitors encouraged to bring interactive displays that help students learn by doing.

Youth Connections works with young people across the region to build career awareness and practical skills, especially for students who want options beyond what they typically get in school. The Expo complements that work by bringing the classroom and workplace closer together, helping students connect interests to real pathways in fields that offer strong wages and opportunities to learn while you earn.

The Expo also recognizes employer partners who show up consistently for young people. Last year, McGovern Automotive Group received the first ever Golden Gear Award, recognizing an employer partner that went above and beyond in mentoring youth and creating real opportunities. Youth Connections will present the award again this year and will spotlight another employer who has made a meaningful impact.

In previous years, the Trade and Construction Expo has brought together students, employers, volunteers, and community partners to make career exploration feel accessible and exciting, with activities, raffles, and plenty of opportunities for students to connect one on one with professionals.