More than 1,200 people took the opportunity to sit at the controls of some heavy construction equipment at an event geared to inspire the next generation of skilled operating engineers.
IUOE Local 115 Annual Equipment Rodeo allowed the public to try out equipment like excavators and backhoes at their facility in Maple Ridge.
The event was a massive success, said Jeremy Allingham, spokesperson for the union.
“The public was able to try out some of the latest state-of-the-art construction equipment as well as our equipment simulators. There was free food and drink and everyone had an excellent time,” Allingham said.
The event took place Saturday, June 20.
Since 1931, IUOE Local 115 has helped to build some of the most important infrastructure in B.C..
More than 14,000 of their members work in high-altitude or high-risk environments, including: mechanics, road builders, crane and heavy equipment operators, and dam builders.