The opening ceremonies for the 2016 Skills Canada National Competition took place on Sunday, June 5th at the Moncton Coliseum Complex in New Brunswick.

As a proud premier sponsor, J.D. Irving, Limited (JDI) is welcoming all career counselors, HR managers, administrators, teachers, guidance counselors, parents, students, and skilled workers to come watch over 500 competitors from high schools across Canada compete in over 40 competitions. In addition, over 5000 high school students in the province will visit booths and observe trades in action as they learn about the diverse job opportunities.

The Skills Canada Competition is a free event taking place until Wednesday evening and is open to the public. JDI recruiters will be present during the event and the company is offering a $2,500 scholarship to a student who takes a selfie at our photo booth.

“Over the next two days, more than 500 students and apprentices will travel to Moncton to compete in several skilled trade and technology contests. The enthusiasm and dedication of the students in attendance is something that I both admire and respect, and it is great to see so many young Canadians actively learning new skills and ensuring a brighter future for themselves.” The Rt. Hon. Justin P.J. Trudeau, P.C., M.P. Prime Minister of Canada.

Here at home in New Brunswick, we have 1,400 New Brunswick Community College and CCNB graduates working in our operations. Skilled trades are an integral part of our business. Between 2016 and 2018, we plan on hiring 460 people across our operations.

“It is very important for any successful business to have an inspirational vision and mission which represents the organization’s goals. Skills Canada’s vision is for Canada to lead the world in skill development, with a mission to encourage, support and coordinate a Canadian approach to promoting skilled trades and technologies to youth.” said Steven Price, VP Corporate Human Resources, Irving Group Corporate. 

Alan Filippone is an Apprentice Truck and Transport Technician with Midland.

“JDI is a great place for apprentices. Efforts are rewarded and opportunities are limitless. They’re investing in me by providing resources to enhance my skills. As an immigrant from Italy, New Brunswick is my new home. It’s where I want to build my future.” said Alan Filippone, Apprentice Truck and Transport Technician with Midland.

Skills Canada’s mission statement is “to encourage and support a coordinated Canadian approach to promoting skilled trades and technologies to youth.” This competition is your chance to network with other professionals in your field and industry, and to learn and share. Check out the map below to see where you could be starting a career with JDI!

Make it out to this year’s Skills Canada National Competition in Moncton, New Brunswick. Visit skillscompetencescanada.com for more information, and don’t forget to stop by the JDI photo booth for your chance to win $2,500!