Government Of Canada Congratulates Team Canada Finalists At WorldSkills Competition

09 Jul 2013

The Honourable Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development, today congratulated the Canadian participants and medallists at the WorldSkills Competition held in Leipzig, Germany, last week. The WorldSkills Competition is a biennial event that showcases the abilities of hundreds of skilled young workers from around the world in various trades, technology and service industries.

Over 1000 participants, including 35 members of Team Canada, competed for medals at the event. Team Canada won a gold medal in the Heating and Refrigeration category, as well as 14 Medallions of Excellence.

"Team Canada has proven that Canadians have what it takes to excel in the rapidly growing trades, technology and service industries. I am personally very proud of these young people who have represented our country so well on the international stage," said Minister Finley. "Today's youth are tomorrow's workforce. Our government's investment in skills development for young people contributes to Canada's long-term growth and overall prosperity."

The Government of Canada is helping young Canadians by offering grants, tax credits and support for training programs such as apprenticeships so that they can gain the skills and experience they need to enter and succeed in the job market.

Skills/Compétences Canada coordinates annual skills competitions and selects and prepares competitors for the WorldSkills Competition. The Government of Canada is a strong supporter of Skills/Compétences Canada and its provincial and territorial chapters, providing $8.7 million in funding over three years.

"Skills competitions are an exceptional showcase for talented young competitors, and they inspire other young people to explore careers in these high-demand fields," added Minister Finley.

Source: http://www.heraldonline.com/2013/07/08/5004875/government-of-canada-congratulates.html