YukonU and Skills Canada Yukon partner to host 2021 Territorial Skills Competition

WHITEHORSE, YUKON—After a COVID-19 enforced break last year, high school, post-secondary students and apprentices will come together this Saturday to test their skills against one another. The 20 participants are competing for a spot to represent Team Yukon at the Skills Canada Virtual National Competition on June 15.

The one-day competition will once again be hosted primarily at Yukon University’s Ayamdigut campus, with a handful of contests also taking place at a Whitehorse school & Duncan’s Ltd. With strict COVID-19 protocols the event can run in -person for participants and judges however, the public, family and friends are unable to be present to cheer on competitors.

“Having the competition be open to the public is something we’ll work towards making a reality. However, after cancelling last year’s contest with the onset of the global pandemic, we’re thrilled to be able to hold the competition again this year,” said Samantha Hand, Skills Canada Yukon executive director.

Collaborating on hosting the annual Territorial Competition, as well as supporting Skills Clubs, Summer Kids Camps and general engagement of youth in career opportunities in the trades, are the primary focus of a recently signed Memorandum of Understanding between Skills Canada Yukon and Yukon University.

“Skills Canada Yukon is a vital partner in highlighting the career potential of trades and vocational training. There are a number of areas of mutual interest and support for both organizations,” said Jeff Wolosewich, chair, School of Trades, Technology and Mining.

The 2021 competition includes welding, plumbing, carpentry, electrical installations, sheet metal work, heavy vehicle technology, mobile robotics, cooking, baking, hairstyling and many more.

The territorial contest follows 15 local competitions in communities across Yukon.

The Territorial Skills Competition takes place thanks to the generous support of the Government of Yukon Department of Education and local industry, as well as the dedication of many instructors, mentors and trades professionals who judge contests and guide students.

Please see skillsyukon.com/competition/ for more details.