Skilled Trades & Technology

About the conference

The Skills Canada National Competition 2023 was an event that promotes skilled trade and technology careers to Canadian youth. It was held on May 25 and 26 at the RBC Convention Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The event was free and open to the public and registered school visitors.

Over 550 competitors participated in 45 competitions representing six sectors: Construction, Employment, Information Technology, Manufacturing & Engineering, Services, and Transportation.

UA Local 254 was proud to be a Skills Canada Presenting Sponsor, participating in the Try-A-Trade and Technology activities which showcase the skills and techniques used in the piping industry.

From soldering to tube bending, to simulated welding opportunities, students were able to try out these trades for themselves. UA Canada was also presenting at the Skills Symposium about their support for Women in the Skilled Trades and highlighting how Maternity and Parental benefits are essential strategies for retention and recruitment.

This year, UA featured Bit Space Development Ltd. at one of their four booths to showcase VR Sprinkler Fitter, which is a sprinkler fitting simulation featuring a digital twin of the union's wet room.

BSD developed a VR Sprinkler Fitter simulation for the UA Local 254. This mini-game transported participants into a captivating world that replicated their wet room with astonishing precision.

At the Skills Canada conference, attendees lined up eagerly, yearning for a chance to explore the virtual realm of sprinkler fitting. Little did they know that this experience would surpass their expectations and redefine their understanding of learning.

One of the standout advantages of the VR Sprinkler Fitter simulation was its ability to deliver immersive learning. Participants were transported to a meticulously recreated wet room, where every detail mirrored the real-world environment. This allowed them to delve into the intricacies of sprinkler fitting, honing their skills with hands-on practice.

Gone are the days of passive education. This simulation empowered users by providing a genuine, real-world experience. Armed with virtual tools and guided by interactive instructions, participants were able to navigate through challenges, adjust water pressure, and expertly maneuver pipes. It was a transformative learning experience that elevated theoretical knowledge into practical expertise.

The Skills Canada conference brought in many public figures such as ministers, influencers and personalities in the construction and trades spaces.

"A record-breaking attendance at the Skills / Compétences Canada National Competition this week! 🌟
Over the past few days, students in the trades put forth their best efforts to win the top spots in their respective field. It was an honour to participate in the medal ceremony today to help celebrate the successes! "

- Sarah Guillemard

"It’s no secret that I’m a HUGE fan of the skilled trades sector and my absolute favourite event of the year is the @skillscompetencescanada National Competition. This year the competition is being held in Winnipeg, last year it was in Vancouver and next year it’s in Quebec City.

When people ask me what Skills Canada is, my quick answer is that it’s the Olympics for the Skilled Trades (this year there are 550 competitors in 45 different competitions) but it’s so so much more than that. It’s friendships, it’s mentoring, its inspiration. It’s much needed recognition of the opportunities in the skilled trades sector while also engaging in much needed conversations about the stigmas and stereotypes surrounding the industry.

It’s fun. It’s energy. It’s passionate people making positive change in the world and I’m honoured to be a small part of that."

- Kate Campbell

Skills Canada Conference videos