April 24, 2014
Province Honours Top Apprenticeship Graduates at 22nd Annual Awards Ceremony
– – –A Record 10,000 Apprentices now Training for Good Jobs in Manitoba: Minister Oswald
Forty graduating apprentices have received Apprenticeship Manitoba’s highest achievement award, recognizing the best academic performance in each designated trade, Jobs and the Economy Minister Theresa Oswald announced today.
“The apprentices recognized today are the best of the best, launching rewarding careers and playing their part in growing Manitoba’s economy,” said Minister Oswald. “With a record number of young Manitobans now training for good jobs as apprentices, receiving a highest achievement award is truly an exceptional accomplishment.”
Ten of this year’s award winners received special recognition:
- Duncan MacWilliam – automotive service technician;
- Andreas Esau – cabinetmaker;
- Bradley Waldner – carpenter;
- Lyle Salo – construction electrician;
- Scott Baraschuk – crane and hoisting equipment operator;
- Kristopher Wall – machinist;
- Mark Danley – plumber;
- Keith Waldner – pork production technician;
- William Fleming – refrigeration and air-conditioning mechanic; and
- Steven Becker – welder.
Minister Oswald noted the province has introduced new legislation, the first of its kind in Canada, which would require contractors and sub-contractors that bid on public work to employ apprentices whenever possible. The province is also creating more apprenticeship co-op opportunities for women, new Canadians, people with disabilities and Aboriginal people.
“The skilled trades offer some of the most in-demand, quality jobs in Manitoba’s growing economy,” said Minister Oswald. “We are proud to be working with businesses and educators to create more opportunities for young Manitobans to train for good jobs right here at home.”
The minister added all 40 top achievers will receive awards today at a reception for apprentices and employers at the Manitoba Jobs and Skills Development Centre, the province’s one-stop-shop for employment and training services at 111 Lombard Ave.
Manitoba has more than 55 skilled trades available for apprenticeship and certification in four
sectors – industrial, transportation, construction and service. Most apprenticeship programs take two to four years to complete, which includes 80 per cent on-the-job training and 20 per cent in-class learning. After completing classroom and on-the-job training, apprentices can receive journeyperson certification.
The full list of highest achievement award recipients is available at www.manitoba.ca/tradecareers.
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