Exploring Career Opportunities During the National Skilled Trade and Technology Week at Montreal’s Educational Institutions

In a significant gathering at John F. Kennedy High School and John F. Kennedy Adult Education Centre located in Montréal, QC, Skills/Compétences Canada (SCC) successfully hosted the 19^th National Skilled Trade and Technology Week (NSTTW). This pivotal event, held on November 8, 2023, brought together members of the Skills Community to shed light on the myriad of career opportunities within the skilled trades and technology sectors, emphasizing their importance for the Canadian economy.

Celebrating Skilled Trades and Technologies

The event boasted a roster of notable attendees such as Dr. Patrick Rouble (SCC President), Nick Katalifos (Director General of the English Montreal School Board), elite Monster Jam Rider Cynthia Gauthier, and Tommaso Maffei, an SCC alumnus and bronze medalist in secondary Cabinetmaking at the 2023 Skills Canada National Competition. SCC also revealed exciting news about the upcoming 2024 Skills Canada National Competition, which will take place in Quebec City.

Inspirational Activities for Students

The celebratory activities were not only for show; they were educational and interactive, with around 400 local students engaging in about 15 Try-A-Trade® and Technology experiences. These ranged from practical activities in culinary arts, welding, and car painting to discussions on educational paths in trades and technologies. Particular emphasis was given to the Skill for Success 'Reading'—a critical element for success across skilled trades and industries. The gathering served as an illustrious platform to highlight the escalating demand for skilled professionals in Canada, mirroring the foreseen retirement of approximately 700,000 skilled trade workers from 2019 to 2028.

Investment in Future Labour: A National Endeavor

As the week proceeded, SCC’s provincial and territorial Member Organizations coordinated various events to enhance skilled trade and technology awareness. Data from Statistics Canada reiterates an urgent call for the training and recruitment of new skilled workers, a call that is being addressed through nationwide initiatives such as NSTTW.

Both Alphabet Inc. GOOG and Meta Platforms, Inc. META, representing significant technological innovation and connectivity frameworks, reflect the dynamic nature of the technology sector that NSTTW exists to promote. Meanwhile, in investment circles, the value of currencies like the Russian ruble FOREX:RUB offers insight into the economic landscapes in which tech companies and skilled trades operate.

About Skills/Compétences Canada

Fostering a partnership among private and public sectors, Skills Canada, founded in 1989, has been a cornerstone in advocating for skilled trade and technology careers. Its efforts are synchronized with the objectives of WorldSkills, ensuring Canada's place in the global skilled labour conversation. SCC offers hands-on learning through various competitions and programs, enriching young Canadians' knowledge and passion for skilled trades.

Montreal, NSTTW, SCC, SkilledTrades, Technology, Education, Career, Workforce, GOOG, META, FOREX:RUB