Showcasing Meaningful Careers on the Waterfront to the next Generation of Skill-Trades Professionals

Skilled trades professionals play an important role on B.C.’s waterfront. Whether working at container terminals, breakbulk facilities, or bulk cargo operations, trades workers skills and expertise ensure the efficient movement of critical cargo by keeping equipment maintained, reliable, and operating safely. This enables BCMEA members and the longshore workforce to unload and load ships with the goods that Canadians—and global markets—rely on every day. As trade volumes grow and infrastructure evolves, the demand for highly skilled waterfront tradespeople continues to increase. 

We were proud to recently participate in two major trades-focused career fairs, highlighting the exciting and diverse opportunities available on the BC Waterfront.  

We joined industry partners at the BCIT Industrial Campus on Annacis Island, connecting with students exploring pathways into trades and industrial careers. Alongside the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) and our member employer GCT, we engaged with future trades professionals, answering questions about longshore work, terminal operations, and the trades training pathways that support a strong maritime workforce. 

The event offered students an up-close look at the skills and the teamwork that drive operations on B.C.’s waterfront, helping the young students understand how their technical training can translate into impactful, well-paying trades careers.  
 
The collaboration of the BCMEA and ILWU standing side-by-side ensured students heard directly from both an employer and worker perspective—an approach that resonated strongly with those exploring early-career decisions. 
 
The BCMEA also attended the Trades & Technology Career Fair at the University of the Fraser Valley in Chilliwack. The fair brought together students, graduates, and instructors from a wide range of technical programs, creating meaningful opportunities for conversation about waterfront careers. 

Participants were eager to learn about the future skilled- trade roles across B.C.’s ports. From electricians to heavy-duty to mechanics, these careers contribute to the movement of goods essential to communities and the Canadian economy. 

The BCMEA investing in career fairs reflects our ongoing commitment to raising awareness of the rewarding pathways available in waterfront trades. Engaging directly with post-secondary students allows us to support workforce development, strengthen industry partnerships, and encourage the next generation to consider a future in maritime skilled trades.  

We’re looking forward to meeting more future trades professionals at campuses this year.  

Click HERE to learn more about building a career in trades on the waterfront.