Imagine a classroom that rolls into remote communities, where young people and marginalized groups gain access to tools and new career opportunities—right where they live. This is the transformative power of Camosun College’s Mobile Pipe Trades Trailer, an innovative initiative and life-changing program backed by the support of Concert Properties.
Since the 1990s, Concert Properties annual charity golf tournaments in Vancouver and Toronto have raised millions to support trades education programs across Canada, including those at Camosun College in Victoria. Camosun invested a portion of these proceeds to fund the Mobile Pipe Trades Trailer—a hands-on learning hub that brings state-of-the-art training to high schools, Indigenous communities and remote areas across Vancouver Island.
“The Mobile Pipe Trades Trailer is more than a mobile classroom—it’s a vehicle for change,” said Kyle Preston, Chair of Trades and Special Projects at Camosun College. “What makes this program truly special is its ability to reach those who are often underserved— remote communities, marginalized groups and youth who have limited access to skilled trades education and may not have ever considered a future in the trades.” By bringing the learning environment directly to them, students who might never have had the opportunity to explore a trade are now enrolling in programs, securing apprenticeships and finding success in skilled trades.
Over the past five years, the trailer has reached more than 2,200 participants, including 770 women, 440 Indigenous individuals and 220 people with disabilities. For many, this program is their first exposure to the trades, providing them with the skills and confidence needed to pursue meaningful careers. These aren’t just numbers; they represent lives transformed and futures brightened by hands-on learning and mentorship.
Building on this tradition of innovation, Camosun College is also excited to introduce EVAN—a 2025 BrightDrop Zevo 400 AWD electric delivery vehicle integrated into its Trades Development programs. EVAN is more than a vehicle; it’s a leap forward in trades education, offering students hands-on experience with electric vehicle technology. As demand for electrified solutions grows, EVAN equips students with real-world skills while optimizing training efficiency and promoting sustainability.
“Concert Properties’ long-term commitment to trades education has made programs like this possible,” Preston added. “We are deeply grateful to the entire Concert Properties team and to all of the charity golf tournament sponsors and supporters for enabling us to inspire, educate and empower aspiring tradespeople.”
By investing in trades training, Concert Properties is not only addressing the skilled labour shortage but also fostering a stronger, more equitable communities—one student at a time.