The Government of Saskatchewan proclaimed Nov. 1 to 7 as Skilled Trade and Technology Week in the province. This week acknowledges the important work performed by skilled tradespeople and those working in the technology sector.
“Skilled workers in these sectors perform vital work in our province,” Immigration and Career Training Minister Eric Schmalz said. “Saskatchewan is expecting $60 billion of investment in 60 major projects across the province, and these projects need skilled tradespeople and tech sector workers to succeed.”
Educators are encouraged to promote the week by hosting presentations or skills competitions at their schools. Skills Canada Saskatchewan highlighted the week through an online campaign featuring skilled tradespeople and Skills Canada Saskatchewan alumni success stories, employer spotlights and information and resources on career pathways and Skills Canada Saskatchewan programming.
“When youth start sharpening their career skills early, everyone benefits,” Skills Canada Saskatchewan Executive Director Krystal Nieckar said. “This week raises awareness of the rewards – both financial and personal – careers in the skilled trade and technology sectors provide. It’s an additional opportunity to promote and raise awareness of these fulfilling career pathways.”
Students can get a head start on their apprenticeship by registering for the Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship program with their school and the Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission (SATCC). Students complete 12 activities that enhance their knowledge of apprenticeship, journeyperson certification and careers in the skilled trades. If they register as apprentices within five years of program completion, they receive a waiver of their apprenticeship registration fee and Level 1 technical training tuition, as well as 300 trade time hours.
“We have seen significant growth in the apprenticeship system and increased demand for apprenticeship training in recent years,” SATCC CEO Jeff Ritter said. “We are pleased to support the proclamation of Skilled Trade and Technology Week. Saskatchewan needs skilled tradespeople and this week celebrates the meaningful contributions they make to our growing province.”
As of June 30, more than 8,000 apprentices were registered in Saskatchewan, the highest number in nearly a decade.