The second annual Built to Lead event will offer young women in Bruce, Grey, and Huron counties a hands-on opportunity to explore careers in skilled trades.
The Nuclear Innovation Institute (NII) will bring together students in Grades 7 through 12 to try demonstrations, ask questions, and meet tradeswomen who are thriving in their fields.
The free event will take place on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at the Grey County Sydenham Campus in Owen Sound.
“Built to Lead is a successful Bruce, Grey and Huron county event introducing young women to the fulfilling world of skilled trades. It is a fantastic opportunity for local students, and we’re pleased to host another year along with our dedicated partners,” said Jessica Linthorne, NII President and CEO.
Last year, over 350 students took the opportunity to experiment with everything from cutting sheet metal to changing tires and even hairstyling. Students will also have the chance toconnect with mentors and explore pathways that could shape their future careers.
This year, NII is teaming up again with the Bluewater District School Board and the Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board, bringing together 25 exhibitors covering careers in welding, pipefitting, carpentry, electrical work, and more.
Participants will be able to join live demonstrations, tour local training facilities, and learn about apprenticeship programs. Grey-Bruce Makers will be on hand offering students a place to craft custom projects. Georgian College will host campus tours and provide information on supporting students interested in trades careers.
The event’s lineup of exhibitors includes a wide range of local organizations and unions: Bluewater District School Board, Boilermakers Local 128, Bruce County Early Learning, Bruce Power, Bruce-Grey Catholic District School Board, BWXT, Canadian Union of Skilled Workers, Candu Energy, E.S. Fox, Fanshawe College, Georgian College, Grey Bruce Makers, Hair Connection, LiUNA 1059, Millwrights Local 1592, NAYGN, OK Tire, Owen Sound Girls' Welding Club, Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, Saugeen Sparks Training Centre, Sheet Metal Workers Local 473, Shouldice Stone, UBC Local 2222, and Women in Nuclear.
Built to Lead will run from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., with refreshments provided, and free parking available in Georgian College’s lot. Students and families interested in attending are encouraged to register at nii-built-to-lead-april29.eventbrite.com, and anyone curious about NII’s broader work can visit nii.ca for more information.
