in Canada, kicks off May 5-7, 2014
in Waterloo. This Olympic-style
skilled trades competition gives
students the chance to show
off their skills provincially and
nationally. Through competitions
in trades ranging from welding to
baking, students contend for the
top spot by demonstrating their
skill application, accuracy and
professionalism.
careers in the skilled trades sector gives them greater
options and opportunities for success," says Ontario
College of Trades Chair Ron Johnson. The College is a
sponsor of the competition.
and problem solving skills. Because these skills are so
important, a high school education is crucial for success
in the trades; the classroom is where the foundation of
success is built.
Also, the myth that university is the only path to a good
career needs to be cast aside.
"People often forget that there are four career pathways
after high school: straight to work, apprenticeship,
college and university. There's no right or wrong way, and
different paths leading to different outcomes and careers.
Simply put, if you're interested in the skilled trades,
apprenticeship and college are the way to go," said Gail
Smyth, Executive Director of Skills Canada Ontario.
When it comes to wages, job security and employment
satisfaction, research from the Canadian Apprenticeship
Forum (CAF) demonstrates that those who have completed
apprenticeships fare better than individuals who haven't
completed trade or technical programs. For instance,
trained apprentices have:
·
several years after being certified
that influence career choices can have a huge impact. By
promoting the skilled trades as a desirable, first choice
career option for Ontario youth, a wider career net is cast--
trades and potential career paths.
Skills Canada-Ontario's 25th Ontario Technological Skills
Competition, which showcases nearly 2,000 competitors
from elementary, secondary and post-secondary students,
takes place May 5 to 7 in RIM Park, Waterloo, followed
by the Skills Canada National Competition June 4 to 7
in Toronto and the WorldSkills Competition in São Paulo,
Brazil August 11 to 16.
about these competitions,
visit the Skills Canada-
Ontario website at:
in the skilled trades sector gives them greater options and
opportunities for success." - Ron Johnson