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CTE Trades Day

November 13, 2025: Trades Day

The image shows a yellow sign with the text %22TRADES DAY ENTRANCE%22 displayed prominently, with a construction helmet icon below the text. The sign is placed in the foreground, and the background appears to be a construction site or industrial setting.
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The image shows several individuals in a workshop setting, with a large vehicle or machinery in the background. The individuals appear to be part of an Automotive Trades Apprenticeship Program, as indicated by the text at the bottom of the image.
A large group of students and staff members posing in front of a military aircraft in what appears to be a hangar or aircraft maintenance facility.
The image shows a group of people gathered around a booth or table, which appears to be part of the Nor Cal Carpenters Union. The booth is set up with various items and materials, and the people in the image seem to be engaged in some kind of activity or discussion.
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A large group of students from Burlingame High School posing in front of a military helicopter in an indoor hangar-like setting.
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A group of people, some wearing jackets and others in casual attire, are gathered around a table displaying various items, with an American flag visible in the background.
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A group of people, likely students, gathered around a booth promoting the Chico State Construction Management Program, with various informational materials and displays visible in the background.
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The image shows a large sign for the company %22ALCAL%22 which is advertising their contracting services, including insulation, roofing, and overhead doors. The background appears to be an indoor setting, possibly an office or trade show.
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Two men, one older and one younger, are engaged in conversation in front of a banner for %22XL Construction%22.

On November 13, more than 135 students enrolled in various Career and Technical Education (CTE) classes at Aragon, Burlingame, Capuchino, Hillsdale, Mills and San Mateo High Schools attended a Trades Day event in Alameda, held on the USS Hornet. The event was hosted by the Construction Industry Education Foundation (CIEF).

This immersive experience allowed students to engage directly with professionals across the trades and construction management fields. Participating industries and organizations included:

  • Skilled Trades: Steamfitters, Carpenters, Electricians, and SFO’s Fleet Mechanics.
  • General Contractors: XL and  Webcore
  • Post-Secondary Programs: 

Build California specifically helps students navigate the complex Trades Apprenticeship Programs, connecting them with immediate, meaningful career opportunities right out of high school. Yuhi Aizawa Combatti, Director of Workforce Development of the Associated General Contractors of California, represented the organization at Trades Day. 

San Francisco International Airport (SFO) had several industry professionals sharing information with students about SFO’s SheetMetal, Steam Fitters, Automotive Fleet and Paving/Grounds career paths. 

Aragon High Construction and Trades MC3 Apprenticeship Readiness Program Instructor Arron Apperson had this to say about the event: “Crucially, the day provided tangible paths forward. Several students discovered roles they had never considered, such as Heavy Equipment Mechanic, which resonated deeply with them and ignited excitement for their future. As an educator, it is immensely rewarding to witness this "spark", a recognition that there are robust, successful, and fulfilling career opportunities available outside of the college-only track. This program and event are vital steps in building a strong future, with our students ready to construct and contribute to our community.”

SMUHSD offers multi-year Career and Technical Education pathways in a wide range of industry sectors. These pathways prepare students for postsecondary education and entry into a career. Career and Technical Education Teachers partner with industry representatives and engage in ongoing professional development in order to ensure that our curriculum is up-to-date and reflects the latest trends in industry.