Rene Letoile

My Skills Background
I teach bricklaying at Conestoga College. I’m passionate about it because I enjoy sharing this fantastic trade with new people. I know a trade opens so many doors. I’ve been an Expert in bricklaying since WorldSkills Kazan 2019. 

The Importance of Training
Training in the lead-up to a competition is very important. Our bricklaying competitors are typically working as apprentices and, often, they can train every day on the job. They need to focus on fast and clean work. They also need to learn to read blueprints, problem solve, and decide how they’ll build a project when they see it for the first time. 

When I’m training a competitor for the WorldSkills Competition, I have them build past competition projects. I help them understand the projects’ complexities, and stress they’ll have little time to complete them. I want them to realize that when they make a mistake, they can correct it and move on. I think our WorldSkills Team Canada 2024 competitors will be successful if they have a great experience, feel good about how they performed, and know they did their best. 

Personally, I’m looking forward to the camaraderie among the Experts and within my trade.  

The Value of the Skills for Success
Problem solving is the number one skill during training and at the competition. Adaptability and Numeracy are also very important. Additionally, I’m hoping my competitor will develop increased self-confidence, and make lifelong friendships and great memories. 

Why I Love Volunteering
I love my trade so volunteering as an Expert and helping to promote bricklaying is very important to me. The other great thing about volunteering are the connections you make with other Experts. Many are also teachers and networking with them is always rewarding and interesting as we have the chance to share stories and ideas.