Statement made on 26 May 2010 by Senator Catherine Callbeck
Hon. Catherine S. Callbeck:
Honourable senators, this past weekend, more than 550 young people from across Canada gathered in Waterloo, Ontario, for the sixteenth Canadian Skills Competition. These secondary, post-secondary or apprenticeship students competed in over 40 trade and technology contests to showcase their technical and leadership skills. The annual competition is organized by Skills Canada, a national, non-profit organization that actively promotes careers in skilled trades and technology to Canadian young people.
It is increasingly recognized that the Canadian economy faces a shortage of skilled workers. Many companies find it difficult to hire and retain people with the skills, knowledge and abilities they require. Skills Canada has taken on the challenge to encourage more young people to explore the many rewarding career opportunities available in the skilled trades and technologies. Its goal is to increase the number of well-trained, well-prepared young people who can be employed in a wide range of jobs in the economy of today and tomorrow.
The Canadian Skills Competition is Canada's largest showcase of trade and technology talent. Students participate in practical challenges designed to test the demanding and exacting skills required in trade and technology occupations. It is a chance for students to show what they know. It is a wonderful learning experience and provides an opportunity to recognize the high level of skills associated with today's trades and technologies.
Honourable senators, trade and technology workers keep our cars running, our homes comfortable, our telecommunication systems operating and our food supply safe. Without skilled trades and technology workers, our world would literally cease to function. That is why I pay tribute today to our skilled workers across Canada and extend congratulations to all those who took part in this year's Canadian Skills Competition.