Tenth National Skilled Trades and Technology Week Kicks Off with Try-A-Trade® and Technology Activities
OTTAWA, Nov. 5, 2014 /CNW/ – Yesterday Skills/Compétences Canada (SCC) was proud to launch its tenth National Skilled Trades and Technology Week creating awareness for students and educators of the incredible career opportunities available in skilled trades and technologies across Canada.
At the launch event, at Algonquin College, 300 students from Ottawa participated in hands-on Try-a-Trade® and Technology activities put on by 11 industry partners and the college. Speakers included Mike Holmes Jr. of “Holmes Makes it Right” and “Mike’s Ultimate Garage” as well as Executive Chef Jonathan Korecki from Ottawa’s 18 & SideDoor restaurants. Chef Korecki set a hospitality challenge for Mike Holmes Jr. and Skills/Compétences Canada’sCEO Shaun Thorson underlining the importance of formal education on the path to a successful future.
“It is essential for Canadians to understand the vital role of skilled trades and technology in our society and its importance for our economy,” stated Thorson. “Skilled trades and technology careers include electricians, plumbers, chefs, IT professionals, graphic designers, hairdressers, entrepreneurs of every stripe and so much more.”
This year’s Essential Skill highlights the importance of Numeracy competencies for skilled trades and technologies. Numeracy refers to many forms of math skills fundamental to entering the skilled trades and technology field. Foundational courses, including math, are absolutely critical to guarantee both individual success and Canada’sposition at the forefront of global competiveness.
The Honourable Jason Kenney, Canada’s Jobs Minister, praised the focus of the annual National Skilled Trades and Technology Week. “There is a paradox of too many Canadians without jobs and too many jobs without workers. To address this, it is critical that we match the skills of Canadians with the needs of employers. A career in the trades or technology not only offers rewarding work opportunities for individuals, it also contributes to Canada’s competitive advantage in the global economy. Congratulations to Skills/Compétences Canada for its key role in promoting careers in the trades and for such a successful National Trades and Technology Week.”
Skilled trades and technologies are becoming ever increasingly vital to Canada’s future economic stability and its standing in global markets. The career paths are varied, plentiful and fulfilling. With the official launch complete, Skills/Compétences Canada and its Member Organizations will be hosting regional events throughout the week to promote skilled trades and technologies across Canada. For more information, visit the NSTTW Webpage on the Skills/Compétences Canada Website.
