Over 400 Students to Attend Skilled Trades Fair in Dubuque for Hands-On Experience

Over 400 high school students from the tri-state area are getting the chance to swap the classroom for real-world experience at the upcoming Skilled Trades Fair in Dubuque. The event is set to take place April 24th and 25th at Portzen Construction Company, and looks to give students the tools to explore careers in the skilled trades, both figuratively and literally.

Organized by the Dubuque Area Labor-Management Council in partnership with the Alliance for Construction Excellence, the Skilled Trades Fair has become an annual highlight for students considering career paths beyond the traditional four-year college route.

Get our free mobile app

The fair isn’t your average career day. With over 18 interactive stations, students won’t just be reading about the trades; they’ll be welding with simulators, operating heavy equipment, wiring circuits, and testing out tools used by electricians, carpenters, mechanics, and more.

In the press release, Kelly Cooper, Executive Director of the Dubuque Area Labor-Management Council, said the event offers something many students don’t get to experience in a typical school setting.

“Most kids pass by construction sites or see utility crews working, but they don’t always get the chance to understand what those jobs really involve. This gives them a chance to get curious, ask questions, and try it out for themselves.”

The trades represented range from plumbing and pipefitting to auto mechanics, line work, and even painting and glazing. Local unions and businesses bring the equipment and expertise, while the students bring the energy and interest in the trades available to explore.

The event is made possible by a range of local sponsors including the Dubuque Racing Association, Portzen Construction, Inc., Van Meter, Crescent Electric Supply Company, J & R Supply Inc, Graybar, CED, Ironworkers Local 89, McDonald Supply, and Millwrights Local 2158.

As the skilled trades continue to face workforce shortages, events like the Skilled Trades Fair in Dubuque are more than just educational, they’re essential to keeping our Tri-State area thriving. They connect students with real options for high-paying, in-demand careers right in their own community. For students who learn best by doing, this fair might just spark the beginning of a rewarding career.