‍Skills Council of Canada (SCC) is proud to have participated in the 2023 Skills Ontario Competition held at the Toronto Congress Centre. This dynamic three-day event, held from May 1-3, united more than 75 contests and multiple conferences, emphasizing the critical role ofskilled trades in Ontario's thriving economy.

The competition offered a platform for secondary and post-secondary students to showcase their unique talents and abilities in various trades. It also provided a forum for industry leaders, employers, trade unions, and potential partners to collaborate and network, creating a powerful trade skills ecosystem.

SCC's participation underscored our commitment to fostering and promoting the importance of trades in Ontario. This aligns with our mission to create an ecosystem that enhances workforce and trade development, awareness, building a skills pipeline, and facilitating work-integrated learning experiences.

SCC was proud to sponsor the event, promoting Skills Ontario’s career app on large format banners that were displayed from the ceiling at the entrance of the venue. This sponsorship highlighted our support for Skills Ontario and our shared commitment to trade skill development.

‍"Participating in the Skills Ontario Competition was a fantastic opportunity for SCC. We met with numerous industry leaders, potential partners, and enthusiastic young talents, all of whom share our vision for a robust trades sector," said Kate O’Neil, Vice President Skills Council of Canada. "It's inspiring to see thepassion these young people have for their chosen trades. It confirms the importance of our mission to support and promote these essential skills."

As we reflect on the success of the 2023 Skills Ontario Competition, SCC is more committed than ever to our mission.

Hearing leaders such as a the CEO of Skills Ontario and Ontario's Minister of Education's inspiring speeches validated their commitments and passion towards efforts in the trades.

We look forward to continuing our work with Skills Ontario, industry leaders, trade unions,employers, and future partners to strengthen Ontario's trade sector.

‍About Skills Ontario

Skills Ontario is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting skilled trades and technologies to Ontario youth. Founded in 1989, the organization has been integral in addressing the skilled labour shortage in Ontario by actively engaging young individuals, educators, industries, and communities.

Skills Ontario organizes a host of interactive programs and initiatives, including the annual Skills Ontario Competition, which is the largest skilled trade and technology competition in Canada. This event provides a platform for young individuals to demonstrate their skills in various trades and technology sectors, encouraging them to pursue careers in these areas.

In addition, Skills Ontario runs workshops, conferences, and mentorship programs to provide insights into these careers. It also champions diversity in the trades through initiatives like the Young Women's and First Nations, Métis & Inuit Conferences. Through its dedicated efforts, Skills Ontario continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of trades and technologies in Ontario.