Apprentices from across Canada gathered in Edmonton for national competition

Edmonton hosted dozens of people in different skilled trades over the weekend. CTV Edmonton's Marek Tkach has the story.

Trades apprentices from across Canada have put their knowledge to the test for the 31st National Apprenticeship Competition last week.

The competition hosted 34 contestants who completed their apprenticeships to showcase their skills in their respective industry.

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Each contestant is granted 12 hours spread over two days to complete a project that demonstrates what they’ve learned in the apprenticeship program.

The event is putting various trades in the spotlight including scaffolding, millwrighting, interior systems, floor covering and carpentry.

Kimberley Letwin of the Carpenters’ Regional Council told CTV News Edmonton what is expected of the contestants during the competition.

“They start at eight o’clock this morning, and it’s over at 4 p.m. and then tomorrow they’re back on the tools at 8 a.m. until noon,” said Letwin on Friday.

“This is celebrating our members in the trades who have completed their final year of apprenticeship training, and we’re celebrating them and showcasing their skills. It’s the best of the best of Canada,” she added.

More than 200 high school students paid the contestants a visit during the championships.

“One thing that is very important for us is to have the high schools come in and do tours to actually see a bit of the projects that are being built, and they’ll be able to see what opportunities there are for different trades in the organization or in the world,” Letwin said.

Riley Ward, a journeyman carpenter, said on Friday how learning a trade is a great opportunity, especially for students.

“I think it’s great for the younger generation to get into (the trades). You can learn lots, meet lots of people, make lots of money if you get into the right spot,” said Ward.

Letwin said the winner not only gets bragging rights, but prizes donated by local businesses involved with Carpenters’ Regional Council and sponsors of the event.

With files from CTV News Edmonton’s Marek Tkach