2026 Akron Canton Builds Skilled Trade Expo
September 16-17, 2026
Training Center Registration
We invite your Training Center to participate in this year’s Akron Canton Builds Skilled Trades Expo. This event offers an outstanding opportunity to highlight the diverse career paths available in the Union Trades to high school students and the wider community.
Your participation highlights a commitment to developing the next generation of skilled trades professionals and strengthens collaboration between educators, apprenticeship training centers, and contractors/suppliers. The event offers valuable visibility and direct engagement with students, schools, and industry partners.
If you have any questions or need additional information, please reach out to us at info@akroncantonbuilds.com.
Thank you for considering this chance to join us in advancing our mission.
When:
Wednesday, September 16 through Thursday, September 17, 2026
Pre-Scheduled School Tours:
Hours: 8:30 AM–2:30 PM both days, with a public Open House on Thursday, hours 2:00 PM-6:00 PM.
Open House:
The Open House will be available for returning students, parents, educators and job seekers—don’t miss this chance to connect with walk-ins seeking opportunities!
- Set-up: Tuesday, September 15, 2026 from 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
- Breakdown: Friday, September 18, 2026 from 7:00 AM–2:00 PM
Who:
High school students in grades 9–12 are invited to attend the daytime tours.
The Open House welcomes anyone interested in exploring careers in construction, including students, returning students, parents, and members of the community.
This session is promoted through multiple media outlets, targeting adults seeking career opportunities. Last year, $25,000 was invested in advertising this portion of the event.
Where:
Summit County Fairgrounds
1050 North Ave., Tallmadge, Ohio 44278
What:
Last year’s event featured 15 Union Apprenticeship centers and 35 contractors and suppliers.
The Expo gives students the chance to observe live demonstrations, participate in hands-on activities, interact with industry professionals, and explore construction careers in depth. It’s also an excellent opportunity to recruit new talent!
Here is a link to our 2025 video.
