Ontario Construction News staff writer
Events across the country last week celebrated National Skilled Trade and Technology Week (NSTTW), an initiative designed to inspire young Canadians to explore rewarding careers in the skilled trades and technology sectors.
Organized by Skills/Compétences Canada (SCC) and its provincial and territorial partners, the week featured hands-on events, career fairs, workshops and demonstrations aimed at raising awareness about the critical role of skilled workers in shaping Canada’s future.
In Ontario, SCC hosted a networking breakfast and Skills Fair at Centennial College in Toronto on Nov. 6. The event brought together education and industry leaders to discuss workforce needs and connect with students exploring post-secondary options. Middle and high school students participated in interactive Try-A-Trade® and Technology activities and labs, giving them a firsthand look at a variety of in-demand careers.
“We’re proud to highlight National Skilled Trade and Technology Week as a way to help youth discover the exciting possibilities that careers in trades and technologies can offer,” said Shaun Thorson, chief executive officer of Skills/Compétences Canada. “With a growing demand for skilled workers, this week provides a valuable opportunity to connect young people with employers and showcase the rewarding pathways available in these sectors.”
Throughout NSTTW, SCC’s member organizations hosted activities from coast to coast — including skilled trade demonstrations, career expos and social media campaigns — all designed to engage youth, parents and educators in learning more about opportunities in the skilled trades.
The week also underscored the urgent need for more young Canadians to enter these fields, with demand for electricians, carpenters, welders, HVAC technicians, and other skilled workers continuing to rise.
SCC continues its year-round efforts to promote careers in the trades and technologies through educational programming and competitions. Its signature event, the Skills Canada National Competition (SCNC), will return to Toronto’s Enercare Centre on May 28–29, 2026, where students and apprentices will showcase their talents and compete for national titles.
National Skilled Trade and Technology Week serves as a reminder that skilled careers offer strong job prospects, stability, and the opportunity to help build Canada’s future — one project, innovation and trade at a time.