Camosun and German Trades students exchange skills across borders

Camosun trades students (second cohort since 2024) during their two-week learning and cultural exchange program in Germany

The German Apprenticeship Trades Exchange (GATE) program, now in its second year, gives German students opportunities to gain international experience in their skilled trades in North America.

The exchange, fully funded through Employment and Social Development Canada’s Global Skills Opportunity Program (GSO) and the Joachim Herz Foundation (JHF), with extra support from GAIN Group and EduPals for students from Städtische Berufsschule II, has positioned Camosun as a pioneer – being the first Canadian institution to participate in GATE.

This program's success builds on its modest beginnings in 2023, when Camosun first welcomed four German students and an instructor. Since then, two cohorts of Camosun students from Carpentry and Fine Furniture programs have completed their exchanges in Regensburg, Germany. The first group visited from April 18 to May 2, 2024, accompanied by instructors Albert Van Akker and Sandra Carr, while the second cohort traveled from February 8 to 22, 2025, with instructor Theo Riecken.

"This experience has deepened my understanding of fine craftsmanship while introducing me to new building and construction techniques,"

- Carly Chatten, carpentry apprentice

"This experience has deepened my understanding of fine craftsmanship while introducing me to new building and construction techniques," says Carly Chatten, a carpentry apprentice who participated in the February 2025 exchange. "In Germany, their methodical approach to building is influenced by traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations."

What makes the program unique is its focus on hands-on learning in a culture that's renowned for its craftsmanship. Sam Johns, a Fine Furniture and Joinery student, noticed striking differences between Canadian and German approaches to the trade. "Although Germany has advanced machinery, they have a balance between using machines and hand tools. Students going through their carpentry apprenticeship are still taught by only using hand tools for their projects."

This old-world attention to detail offers a sharp contrast to North American methods. "In Canada, we prioritize speed and efficiency, leaving more room for flexibility on the job site," Johns explains. "But there, we saw a higher standard of pride and care that went into each step of the build."

The partnership continues to thrive. This month, Camosun received 10 students and two instructors specializing in drafting and fine joinery for a two-week immersion from April 20 to May 3. These exchanges create unique opportunities for students to learn different approaches to their trades while building international connections.

The GATE program continues to expand, with plans for future exchanges already in development. This successful international partnership demonstrates Camosun's commitment to providing innovative learning opportunities that prepare students for the evolving demands of the global trades industry.