This spring, I had the opportunity to be part of the Heavy Metal Rocks program alongside an incredible group of students, educators, operators, volunteers, and industry professionals committed to supporting the future of skilled trades in our region.
According to recent coverage from Castanet Kamloops and CFJC Today, the 2026 program welcomed a record number of student applicants, highlighting the growing interest in skilled trades and hands-on career exploration across the Kamloops region.
Hosted annually for School District 73 students, Heavy Metal Rocks gives young people direct exposure to careers in construction, heavy equipment operation, forestry, transportation, and related industries. Instead of simply learning about trades in a classroom setting, students get the chance to experience them firsthand by operating equipment, learning from certified professionals, and exploring real-world career paths.
At Excel Personnel, we believe workforce development starts long before someone applies for their first job. Creating opportunities for students to explore careers early, build confidence, and connect with industry professionals is an important part of strengthening the future workforce in British Columbia.
One of my personal highlights from the event was having the opportunity to step into the equipment myself and try operating an excavator, grader, and haul truck. It gave me a whole new appreciation for the level of skill, focus, and training involved in these careers and reinforced how impactful this experience must be for students exploring the trades for the first time.
In addition to participating in the event, our team was proud to support students through career readiness conversations focused on resumes, interview preparation, professionalism, and employability skills. While technical training is incredibly important, confidence and communication also play a major role when young people begin entering the workforce.
Programs like Heavy Metal Rocks help students make informed decisions about future education, apprenticeships, certifications, and career opportunities. Hands-on learning experiences can open doors, spark new interests, and help students better understand the many pathways available within the skilled trades sector.
With skilled labour shortages continuing across many industries in BC, initiatives like this have never been more important. We regularly work with employers across construction, industrial, transportation, administration, and skilled trades sectors throughout British Columbia, and we see firsthand the growing demand for skilled workers.
One of the most inspiring parts of Heavy Metal Rocks is the level of community collaboration behind it. Local companies, operators, instructors, sponsors, volunteers, and educators all come together to create meaningful opportunities for students. The continued growth of the program speaks volumes about the community’s commitment to investing in the next generation.
This year also marked an exciting next step in our involvement with the program. Excel Personnel has joined the Heavy Metal Rocks Steering Committee and will also be supporting post-program tracking initiatives.
One of the most important parts of workforce development is understanding the long-term impact these experiences have on students as they move into training, apprenticeships, and future careers. Being involved at this level allows us to continue supporting conversations around career readiness, employability, and workforce pathways for local youth.
Seeing students gain confidence through real-world exposure made it clear why programs like Heavy Metal Rocks are so important for the future workforce in our region.
Heavy Metal Rocks is more than just a trades event. It is a powerful example of what can happen when schools, employers, community organizations, and industry professionals work together to support youth career exploration and workforce development.
I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to be involved in this year’s program and look forward to continuing to support students as they explore future opportunities in skilled trades and beyond.
For a closer look at the event, watch the Heavy Metal Rocks 2026 video here: Heavy Metal Rocks 2026 Video
