The Skills Canada National Competition (SCNC) held in Halifax, Nova Scotia has come to an end after four days of fierce competition. Over 550 students and apprentices of various ages from across the country competed for the title of national champion in 44 skilled trades and technologies at the Halifax Exhibition Centre.  J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) and the Halifax Shipyard were proud to support the event and work with the amazing organizers, volunteers and participants.

Medals were awarded to the top competitors in 44 Skill Areas representing six skilled trade and technology sectors, including: transportation, construction, manufacturing and engineering, information technology, service and employment. Two of the competitors were JDI's very own Shawna Levesque and Connor Warren. Levesque is a machinist with Custom Fabrication and Machining (CFM) located in Saint John New Brunswick. Warren is a welder with the Halifax Shipyard and was awarded silver in his competition. 

“It was unbelievable. I heard them announce bronze, and thought, well that was my chance. And then I heard my name called for silver," says Connor Warren. “I enjoy my work, I like that it’s hands-on and I take pride in it”.

During the SCNC, approximately 7,500 student visitors, industry leaders, government officials and several industry celebrities were in attendance to take part in some of the onsite activities such as the Essential Skills Stage and over 50 Try-A-Trade® and Technology activities. Many JDI employees volunteered at the interactive booth where there were welding and harvesting simulators for students to try-a-trade. 

"We are proud to have been a contributing sponsor for this year’s national competition. Showcasing the variety of skilled trades in our organization is critical as we look to hire over 700 skilled trades over the next three years.  This opportunity allowed participants from coast to coast to learn more about the opportunities available to them as well as a chance for some of our JDI skilled trades to compete at a national level,” said Colleen Baxter, Vice President of Human Resources at JDI.

The goal and objective of the SCNC is to engage and promote all of the exciting careers that are available to Canadians in the skilled trades and technologies. It is the only national multi-trade and technology event of its kind for students and apprentices in the country.

Thank you to all of the volunteers who have made this event another huge success.