Winnipeg, MAN — The best students and apprentices in the skilled trades and technologies in Canada will go to battle in the 2023 Skills Canada National Competition (SCNC).
The competition runs from May 24 to 27 at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba.
“We believe that helping young Canadians develop the skills needed for successful careers in trades benefits all of us. We are proud to do our part and look forward to supporting the competitors as they showcase their skills,” said Marlon Thompson, vice president of marketing for Lixil Canada.
Over 550 competitors will compete to become the national champions in their respective fields. There will be 45 skilled trade and technology competitions taking place. This includes plumbing, steamfitter/pipefitter and refrigeration/air conditioning.
The 2023 Skills Canada National Competition will also debut three new initiatives. Firstly, a new Skills Symposium will take place, where industry, government and education will have the opportunity to meet, exchange and share knowledge.
Secondly, a new showcase featuring First Nations, Inuit and Métis skills will allow visitors to take part in activities such as flat stitch beading, soapstone carving, building mini tipis, and constructing Inuit yo-yos.
Lastly, the Empowering Women in Trades initiative will bring together industry partners to show young women the incredible careers that are available in the skilled trades.
The competition features sponsorship from industry leaders such as the United Association, the Canadian Piping Trades, Viega, and the Mechanical Contractors Association of Canada.
American Standard, Ridgid, and Victaulic will serve as gold-level supplier sponsors.
American Standard also holds the title of the official plumbing supplier. As such, they will supply products and expertise to the participants. Competitors in the plumbing category will be able to work with wall-hung sinks, faucets, and showerheads during the competition.
This year’s competition acts as a qualifying year for the 2024 World Skills Competition. Occurring every two years, the WorldSkills Competition is regarded as the largest vocational education and skills excellence event in the world, gathering competitors from up to 85 WorldSkills Member countries and regions.
The 26 winners from selected skill areas in this year’s competition will have the opportunity to compete at the 2024 WorldSkills Competition in Lyon, France.