“All the tradespeople I worked with were welcoming... they made me feel like I belonged and wanted me to learn,” shares Tavion, 16-year-old student who spent his placement at the EllisDon University of Toronto St. George campus site.

What began as a curiosity about the trades turned into a clear passion for construction.

Throughout his time there, Tavion got to experience various aspects of the trades, from general labor to more specialized tasks. Yet, it was working with the laborers that resonated most with him. "They were easygoing, and I found it enjoyable to learn the basics of construction with them," Tavion says. With this experience, he solidified his decision to pursue a future in the trades.

The Specialized Trades Exploration Program (STEP) gave Tavion hands-on experience across different skilled trades, equipping him with the practical knowledge and confidence to move forward in the industry. "Skilled trades will be a big part of my life soon," he states, already planning his first business venture—a contracting company—right after his apprenticeship, which is lined up post-high school.

The STEP To Construction program shapes the future of skilled trade workers in addition to mentoring young people on significant construction projects. The team at EllisDon is proud to see each person thrive and build on the skills needed to develop a strong career in construction.

Watch the video HERE.