The best and brightest skilled trade and technology students from B.C. are heading to Saskatoon, Saskatchewan to compete in the Skills Canada National Competition, May 27-30, 2015.

Team B.C. includes 53 competitors from secondary and post-secondary schools competing in categories ranging from welding, website development, robotics, hairdressing, plumbing, cabinet making, computer animation, automotive collision repair, and graphic design.

The Skills Canada National Competition is the only Olympic-style, multi-trade and technology event of its kind for students and apprentices in the country. The event features 500 competitors from all provinces and territories. Participants are evaluated by independent judges from the respective industry sectors. Decisions are based on industry standards and established work practices, using specific criteria such as quality of work, safety, cleanliness, skill level and creativity.

Quotes:

Shirley Bond, Minister of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Minister Responsible for Labour -

“Congratulations to all the Team B.C. participants in this national competition. We are proud of these talented students because they are the future of our province. A strong foundation in trades or technical training will provide the kind of job skills that are in demand and mean a better chance at long-term employment. With the potential of one million job openings due to an aging workforce and economic growth, we need a skilled workforce that will undoubtedly include members of Team B.C.”

Amber Papou, executive director, Skills Canada British Columbia -

“British Columbia will be represented by some of the top trades and technology students in the province at the 21st Annual Skills Canada National Competition being held in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan May 27-30, 2015. SkillsBC is thrilled about the level of expertise that these young people demonstrated at the Provincial Competition held last month in Abbotsford, and expect many of them to win a medal at Nationals. SkillsBC wishes all of our Team the best of luck and are extremely proud of all of them for their hard work and dedication!”

Quick Facts:

• As of 2015, Skills Canada British Columbia works with more than 24 000 B.C. students.
• Skills/Compétences Canada was founded in 1989 as a national not-for-profit organization.
• By 2022, B.C. is expecting one million job openings in B.C created by retirements and our growing economy.
• More than 78% of jobs will require some form of post-secondary education, and 43% will needs skilled trades and technical workers.

Learn More:

BC Jobs Plan: http://www.bcjobsplan.ca/

B.C.’s Skills for Jobs Blueprint: www.workbc.ca/skills

Skills Canada British Columbia: www.skillscanada.bc.ca

Skills/Compétences Canada: http://www.skillscanada.com

Media Contacts:

Media Relations
Ministry of Jobs, Tourism and Skills Training and Responsible for Labour
250 387-2799