Supporting wellness in the workshop
Researchers from the Fitness & Health Promotion program have released a new set of mental health resources designed specifically for students in the skilled trades.
The project, led by faculty in the School of Health Sciences in partnership with the School of Skilled Trades & Transportation, addresses the unique physical and psychological demands of trades education. Workshop environments present distinct challenges, including exposure to heavy machinery, loud noise, and the physical strain of repetitive tasks.
Traditional wellness programs often fail to address these specific stressors. The new resources bridge that gap by integrating mental health strategies with the practical reality of the shop floor.
Designed for the shop floor
The resource kit includes quick-reference guides for managing stress during high-intensity practical assessments, strategies for maintaining focus in noisy environments, and peer-support protocols. The materials were co-developed with current students from the Carpentry & Renovation Techniques and Welding & Fabrication Technician programs to ensure they are practical and relevant.
"We wanted to move beyond generic advice and create something that actually fits into a student's day," says Carmen Ibáñez, a faculty member in the Allied Health & Wellness department. "Trades students need tools they can use in five minutes between tasks, not just during a counselling appointment."
The research was conducted under the Research & Innovation umbrella, which provides support for faculty-led projects that improve student outcomes and community health.
Next steps
The pilot program will roll out to the Tamarack Building workshops starting in January 2027. The team is also exploring partnerships with local industry employers to extend these wellness practices into the apprenticeship phase.
For more information about the Fitness & Health Promotion program, visit the program page.