CHBA Central Interior Launches 2026 Training House Project in Juniper West

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association Central Interior (CHBA CI) proudly marked the official launch of the 2026 Training House Project today at 2257 Coldwater Drive in Kamloops’ Juniper West neighborhood. The event brought together students, instructors, industry partners, elected officials, and community leaders for a construction-themed ceremony celebrating the start of this year’s build.

This year’s project continues 36 years of partnership with Thompson Rivers University (TRU) Trades and Technology and 30 years of collaboration with YMCA BC — two enduring relationships that have shaped the Training House into one of the most recognized hands-on learning initiatives in the region.

Each year, TRU trades students take on the foundational stages of the build, gaining practical, hands-on experience that prepares them for real-world careers in the skilled trades. The Training House is more than just a job site; it’s a learning ground where technical skills and confidence are built side by side.

“Today is more than just a launch — it’s a commitment to the future of our industry,” said Chris Crowell, President of CHBA Central Interior. “By combining mentorship, community support, and real-world jobsite experience, we’re giving students the skills, confidence, and connections they need to succeed in the skilled trades.”

The Training House program gives first-year TRU students in carpentry, plumbing, electrical, and HVAC programs the opportunity to work on a real home from the foundation up to the lock-up stage, learning valuable skills they will carry into their careers. Once CHBA CI members complete the home, it becomes the grand prize in the YMCA Dream Home Lottery, with proceeds funding vital community programs across Kamloops and the surrounding area.

This year’s class is led by TRU Instructor Bryce Coombs and includes 16 first-year students. The kickoff ceremony featured a symbolic “construction ribbon-cutting” with TRU student Nicholas Briscoe cutting a 2x4 plank to officially start the build.

Elected officials and association leaders in attendance included:

• CHBA National President Matt McCurrach
• MP Mel Arnold (Kamloops—Shuswap—Central Rockies)
• MP Frank Caputo (Kamloops—Thompson—Nicola)
• MLA Peter Milobar (Kamloops Centre)

Attendees also recognized the generous sponsors and members whose support makes the project possible, including Doug MacKenzie, developer of Juniper West, who is hosting the 2026 Training House in his development.

CHBA CI will share updates and milestones throughout the build on its social media channels, giving the community a front-row seat to the progress of the 2026 Training House.

Check out the news highlights here:

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