Calgary, Alberta, September 6, 2009—Four days of intense skills competition for Canadian and international youth concluded with medals being presented to finalists at the 40th WorldSkills Competition held in Calgary. The medals were presented by the Honourable Diane Ablonczy, Minister of State (Small Business and Tourism), along with other government and industry leaders.
“This event was an incredible showcase for these talented young competitors and an inspiration for the thousands of people who saw them perform,” said Minister of State Ablonczy. “Our government is pleased to congratulate each of the competitors, and we’re especially proud of Team Canada for their efforts over the past week.”
Some 900 competitors vied for medals in 45 skilled trades and technology categories. Team Canada won 8 medals, including 3 gold. This marks the highest ever medal total for Team Canada.
As Canada prepares for the economy to recover, it is more important than ever that all Canadians have the skills they need to participate and succeed in tomorrow’s job market.
The Government of Canada supports youth and the skilled trades with several targeted programs, such as the new Apprenticeship Completion Grant and the Apprenticeship Incentive Grant for those who successfully progress in or complete a Red Seal apprenticeship program.
To further support youth, the Government recently implemented significant improvements to student financial assistance measures. More money is now available to eligible students in grants, so students have less debt to repay. These changes also allow for more flexibility in how and when students repay their loans.
With employers in communities across Canada and around the world looking for the best skills and talent, the Government of Canada is committed to creating the best educated, most skilled and most flexible workforce in the world.
To learn more about Team Canada’s medal winners, please visit the Skills/Compétences Canada Web site at: http://www.skillscanada.com/index.php?lang=en.
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This news release is available in alternative formats upon request.
For further information (media only):
Michelle Bakos
Press Secretary
Office of Minister Finley
819-994-2482
Media Relations Office
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
819-994-5559
The 40th WorldSkills Competition took place September 1 to 7, 2009, in Calgary, Alberta, showcasing the best young talent from around the world in the trades, technologies and service industries. During four days of competitions, 900 participants representing more than 50 countries/regions competed in 45 skilled trades and technology categories ranging from welding to cooking, auto body repair to landscape gardening, and plumbing to Web design. Team Canada’s 38 members competed in 35 contest areas at this prestigious international event.
The Government of Canada is a major funding partner of the 40th WorldSkills Competition. This funding is delivered through agreements with the host committee, WorldSkills Calgary 2009, and Skills/Compétences Canada, which is a non-profit organization that works with employers, educators, labour groups and governments to promote skilled trades and technology careers among Canadian youth year-round.
