Build a Dream Educational Events & Programs
Build a Dream offers a rich array of educational opportunities designed to inspire students, support educators, and bridge the gap between classroom learning and future career pathways. Through hands-on experiences, career exploration events, and inclusive programming, Build a Dream empowers young learners to discover their strengths, explore high-demand industries, and learn directly from female mentors and role models. These opportunities create meaningful connections between education and the world of work, helping students build confidence, develop skills, set goals, and plan for their futures.
1. Career Discovery Expos Grades 7–12; Regional (Multiple School Boards)
The Career Discovery Expos are immersive, hands-on events designed for female (and female-identifying) students in Grades 7–12, offering real-world insight into high-demand careers in the skilled trades, STEAM, emergency services, and entrepreneurship. Through interactive exhibits, inspiring speakers, and experiential activities, students explore career pathways while building confidence, curiosity, and connection.
With direct access to industry mentors, tradespeople, and post-secondary partners, students gain practical knowledge and firsthand exposure to future opportunities. These expos are tailored to support school boards’ equity and engagement goals, while increasing awareness and participation in programs like OYAP, SHSM, Co-op, and Dual Credit.
In collaboration with your school board, Career Discovery Expos help:
• Amplify career pathways aligned with regional labour market needs
• Support and expand female participation in skilled trades and technical sectors
• Provide students with access to tools, mentorship, and experiential learning
• Create inclusive, empowering spaces where students feel seen, supported, and inspired
2. Dreamer Day Grades 7- 12; Provincial
Dreamer Day is a groundbreaking experiential learning event that brings together over 3,000 female (and female-identifying) students from across Ontario for a day of hands-on exploration across underrepresented career fields, including the skilled trades, emergency response, STEAM, and entrepreneurship/leadership. Designed to empower students and expand their sense of possibility, Dreamer Day provides meaningful opportunities to connect with industry mentors, develop new skills, and gain insight into high-demand career pathways where women have historically been underrepresented. Participants engage directly with tools, machinery, and trade-specific tasks in a safe, inclusive environment that fosters confidence, curiosity, and skill development. This unique format helps bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world application. Dreamer Day also aligns with and strengthens OYAP (Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program) objectives by:
• Offering meaningful, face-to-face interactions with trades professionals and mentors Build a Dream offers a rich array of educational opportunities designed to inspire students, support educators, and bridge the gap between classroom learning and future career pathways. Through hands-on experiences, career exploration events, and inclusive programming, Build a Dream empowers young learners to discover their strengths, explore high-demand industries, and learn directly from female mentors and role models. These opportunities create meaningful connections between education and the world of work, helping students build confidence, develop skills, set goals, and plan for their futures.
• Highlighting apprenticeship and skilled trade pathways through immersive, practical activities
• Encouraging diverse participation and amplifying OYAP enrolment, particularly among underrepresented students
• Supporting collaboration among educators, guidance counsellors, and employers to create lasting pathways for future apprentices With a strong focus on equity, inclusion, and future-focused career development, Dreamer Day not only inspires students, but it transforms the way they see themselves in the world of work.
3. Brunch & Build Grades 9-12; Regional (Multiple School Boards) or Local (Individual Schools/School Boards)
Brunch & Build is a more intimate, customizable career exploration event designed to connect female (and female-identifying) students with hands-on experiences and inspiring mentors across underrepresented fields. With smaller group sizes and personalized programming, participants enjoy deeper engagement while exploring careers in the skilled trades, STEAM, emergency response, and entrepreneurship.
Students rotate through interactive activity stations, ask questions, and connect directly with industry professionals and role models who offer real-world insight and encouragement. The event also includes targeted learning about programs like OYAP (Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program) and how high school students can start their apprenticeship journey while earning credits.
With a gourmet brunch, prize giveaways, and an empowering atmosphere, Brunch & Build gives students the opportunity to build confidence, spark curiosity, and see how their own strengths and interests can lead to future career success.
4. Building Pathways Grades 6–8; Local (Individual Schools)
The Building Pathways Program introduces middle school students to the exciting world of skilled trades through innovative, hands-on, and experiential learning. Designed to inspire curiosity and confidence, the program is delivered in two dynamic sessions — one virtual and one in-person — each offering unique opportunities for exploration.
Students engage in interactive simulations, trade discovery activities, and practical skill-building exercises that highlight real-world applications and career potential. The program also introduces pathways like OYAP (Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program), helping students and educators understand how early interest can evolve into meaningful high school and post-secondary opportunities. By connecting classroom learning to future careers, Building Pathways empowers students to envision themselves in roles where they build, lead, and thrive.
Grade 7-12, National (Online)
This program is designed to empower female students through one-to-one mentorship in the Skilled Trades, Emergency Response, STEM, Entrepreneurship, and Leadership by turning early inspiration into long-term direction. This gender-responsive mentorship program features:
• An application system, where BaD pairs students in grades 9–12 with a working professional (from one or more of our pillars)
• Monthly one-on-one mentorship sessions for a specific term (winter/spring, summer/fall)
• A safe and supportive environment where students feel comfortable asking real questions and engaging in authentic conversations
• Role models who have experience and knowledge that support students’ learning and their ability to make informed decisions about their future
6. #HerPower Awards – Build a Dream Scholarships Grade 12 & Post Secondary, National (Online)
The #HERPower Awards, presented in partnership with Enbridge, celebrate and support young women and non-binary students pursuing careers in skilled trades, STEAM, emergency response, entrepreneurship, and leadership; fields where women remain underrepresented. Open to Grade 12 and current post-secondary students, the program awards five $1,000 scholarships and a 30-minute career coaching session with Build a Dream’s Career Support Specialists. Applicants are encouraged to share reflections on their motivations, experiences, and barriers in entering non-traditional fields.
With tailored award categories including Skilled Trades, STEAM, Emergency Response, Entrepreneurship, and HerLeadership, this initiative offers more than financial
Do you have a specific program request?
We’re happy to collaborate with you!
Our Education Lead specializes in curriculum development and educational programming, allowing us to curate unique, tailored experiences that align with your students’ needs and learning goals. With the support of our dynamic events team, we can adapt and deliver engaging, impactful programming that fits your vision.
For specific inquiries, or more information, please contact [email protected]
