Blacksmithing Workshop - 2026 - Vancouver, BC

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in the Vancouver Blacksmithing Workshop on November 24th 2026, is now open. The application deadline is 12 November 2026 @ 1200 PST.

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT:  

Soldier On is excited to partner with Fraser River Forge for an eight-hour blacksmithing workshop on November 24, from 10:00 to 19:00. During this hands-on workshop, participants will learn essential safety practices, hammering techniques, forge operation, and the fundamentals of the forging process. They will then put their new skills into practice by creating their own projects, such as a wall hook, spoon, or garden tool. As blacksmithing can be physically demanding, a mandatory lunch break is built into the schedule to give participants time to rest, recharge, and enjoy a meal. Please note: Lunch is not included. Participants are welcome to bring their own lunch or purchase a meal at one of the nearby restaurants. 

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 8.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 

Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from the greater-Vancouver area, or within a 90-minute drive of the Vancouver proper, who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Selected Serving members will require the approval of their Chain of Command to participate. 
 

DRAFT SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

24 November 2026
1000: Welcome brief & introductions
1015-1900: Fraser River Forge (Blacksmithing workshop)

TRANSPORTATION & MEALS:
Participants are advised that meals and transportation will not be provided by Soldier On for this event. Participants will be required to arrange their own travel to and from the event location, travel and meals are not eligible for reimbursement for this event. 

Mental & Physical Requirements:
Applicants must be able to tolerate 8 hour of mid-paced activities. 

Applicants must be able to stand for extended periods on hard surfaces, such as concrete.  

Applicants must be able to lift and handle heavy hammers and metal stock, as well as perform repetitive upper-body movements throughout the workshop.

All serving applicants must not be in violation of any MELs.

Applicants must be comfortable working in small teams.

Applicants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment. 

Applicants also acknowledge that there will be no alcohol allowed during this event.