2014 Skills Canada National Competition in Toronto: MCAO and OPTC Team up to Become Premier Sponsors

Trades Jobs are Conduits to Management Careers, Entrepreneurship

OTTAWA, April 28, 2014 /CNW/ - Today, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Ontario (MCAO) and the Ontario Pipe Trades Council (OPTC) officially announced its partnership with Skills/ Compétences Canada. Both organizations will be premier sponsors at the 2014 Skills Canada National Competition (SCNC) taking place June 4-7 at The International Centre in Toronto.

"Partnering with Skills Canada puts MCAO and OPTC in a position to engage with tomorrow's workforce. It also enables us to play a part in ensuring that young people have a high proficiency of essential skills so that they can become outstanding tradespeople capable of meeting industry needs," said MCAO Director of Membership Services Christina Nardiello.

SCNC is the only national, multi-trade and technology competition for students and apprentices in the country. Every year, more than 500 young people from all regions of Canada come to the event to participate in over 40 skilled trade and technology contests. Admission is free to the public and school groups are encouraged to attend.

"Many of the trades in which MCAO and OPTC members engage, such as welding, plumbing, air conditioning, refrigeration, steamfitting, pipefitting, to name a few, are amongst those represented at the Skills Canada National Competition, so it's fitting that we support this very constructive initiative," said James Hogarth, Business Manager for OPTC.

Shaun Thorson, CEO of Skills Canada said that as young people consider their career options, they should understand that training and work experience in the skilled trades can often become conduits to management careers and entrepreneurship.

"Many of MCAO members are made up of successful businesses owners and managers who rose up through the trades," said Thorson. "We're thrilled that that they have come onboard to help us encourage young Canadians to follow this fulfilling and potential lucrative career path."

About Skills/Compétences Canada
Skills/Compétences Canada was founded in 1989 as a national, not‐for‐profit organization that works with employers, educators, labour groups and governments to promote skilled trades and technology careers among Canadian youth. For information on Skills Canada's programs and competitions visit www.skillscanada.com. CAPP and UA Canada are the Presenting Sponsors of the 2014 Skills Canada National Competition. 

SOURCE: Skills/Compétences Canada

MEDIA CONTACT: Catherine Fortin LeFaivre, Director, Communications, Skills/ Compétences Canada, [email protected] 613-784-9996.