TradesNKY seeking trades exhibitors for skillUP regional career fair for middle school students

TradesNKY is seeking exhibitors for skillUP, a regional career exploration fair designed specifically for Northern Kentucky middle school students. SkillUP introduces students to the trades that Build, Move, Make, Power, and Protect our region and economy.

As workforce demand continues to grow across NKY, employers consistently report difficulty finding skilled, work-ready talent. SkillUP was created to close that awareness gap.

SkillUP provides structured, interactive exploration experiences led directly by industry professionals. Students rotate through demonstrations that allow them to experience real-world skills and begin envisioning themselves in high-demand careers.

The career fair will take place April 16 at Gateway Community and Technical College, Boone Campus, 500 Technology Way in Florence.

SkillUP is inviting employers across the full spectrum of essential trades, including:

While all essential trades are encouraged to apply, TradesNKY is placing special emphasis on securing additional exhibitors in:

SkillUP is produced in partnership with Allied Construction Industries (ACI) and is generously supported by Spirit of Construction Foundation and BE NKY. The event is hosted by Gateway Community and Technical College at its Boone Campus, reinforcing the connection between education, industry, and opportunity.

Employers interested in expanding workforce awareness and strengthening the region’s future talent pipeline are encouraged to apply.

Exhibitor applications are available online via the Skill Up – Request to Exhibit 2026 online form.

For more information, visit skilluptrades.org.

TradesNKY