From bridges and roadways to the outlets in your wall that power your TV and computer, tradespeople have an impact on nearly every aspect of our lives. However, the industry has been struggling to fill the boots of those that are retiring with new apprentices willing to take up the belt.

The Winnipeg Construction Association has been working to fill that void, hosting the Manitoba Construction Career Expo, which saw more than 1,300 high school students come through the doors in order to learn about and experience dozens of different trades.

For many students at the expo, starting a hands-on career in the trades was something they already knew they wanted.

“I’ve always known I want to do trades when I grow up,” explained Hailey Hiebert. “This is just helping me get more [information], to know exactly what I want to do.”

Many of the students told Global News similar stories as to why they were considering the trades, from the enjoyment of working with their hands, to not being stuck at a desk all day, or the fact that red seal trades pay well.