Education/training
Trades takes centre stage at Skills CanadaMore than 1,000 elementary, high school and post secondary students across Ontario will compete at the annual 2002 Ontario Technological Skills Competition. GREG BESELAERE |
|
 [ 2002-04-24 ] |
Taking place April 28 to May 1, this four-day event, co-ordinated by Skills Canada - Ontario, features more than 40 contests which have a direct correlation to many careers in the skilled trades and technologies.
Some of the contests offered include brick masonry, welding, baking, automated manufacturing, carpentry, culinary arts, electronics, auto collision repair and robotics, to name only a few.
All students are competing for the coveted gold medal, and for the secondary and post secondary competitors, the opportunity to represent Team Ontario at the Canadian Skills Competition, to be held in Vancouver, B.C. from May 30 to June 2.
However, Gail Smyth, executive director of Skills Canada - Ontario, points out that although a gold medal is quite an accomplishment, all competitors have something much more valuable to gain from this experience.
"This competition provides students with the opportunity to showcase their skills at a provincial level, as many prospective employers will be in attendance," Smyth says. "The contests are designed by industry representatives.
Students will leave with an understanding of the opportunities in a particular field based on their experience. This is the type of experiential learning that young people need to make informed career decisions."
Through its partnerships in education, industry, labour and government, Skills Canada - Ontario is helping young people brighten their futures and fueling the province's trades industries.
By promoting careers in the skilled trades and technologies, Skills Canada - Ontario is providing young people with the tools they need to succeed. Working to equip industry with employees it needs to thrive, it is also ensuring that Ontario remains competitive in the global marketplace.
To find out more about the Ontario Technological Skills Competition, or Skills Canada - Ontario's other year-round programming, visit www.skillsontario.com, or call 519-748-3524 ext. 3533.
Does your employer subsidize your commute to work?