WiRE Celebrates Skills Ontario Competition!
The Skills Ontario Competition event, which was graced by Premier Doug Ford, Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy, Minister David Piccini, and Mayor Olivia Chow and other dignitaries, strongly emphasized the crucial need to develop and support local youth through robust skills training. Against the backdrop of US-Canada trade tensions and Prime Minister Carney's meeting with President Trump, the discussions centered on a commitment to strengthening Ontario's skilled trades sector as a pillar of empowering our economy.
A major announcement was the commitment of an additional $1 billion in funding towards skills development, supplementing the existing $1.5 billion plan by Premier Doug Ford. The "earn while you learn" model was highlighted as a key strategy. Mayor Olivia Chow specifically addressed the importance of encouraging newcomers in Toronto and Canada to pursue careers in the trades.
Premier Ford underscored the availability of good-paying and dignified jobs within the trades, stating that protecting the trades benefits everyone and has the power to change lives and inspire leaders through investment in people.
Indigenous artist and fashion designer Lesley Hampton also spoke powerfully about the importance of representation as a form of harm reduction to vulnerable communities. She emphasized that the responsibility of a leader stems from breaking barriers and glass ceilings, highlighting the "magic of inclusivity" and the potential for generational change through mentorship support.
The competition itself was an opportunity for students to show off their talents across all the trades, from plumbing, to graphic design, cosmetology and even installing power lines and solar panels. WiRE was honoured to partake in this event that encourages the next generation to be a part of the clean energy transition and empowers them with the skills they need for their bright futures.
