Regina, Saskatchewan -- This week, the most talented aspiring collision industry professionals in Canada are heading to Regina for the 2025 Skills Canada National Competition, which is scheduled to run from May 29 to 30.
Only a small number of the more than 500 competitors will participate in the auto body repair and car painting events.
Excitement is particularly fierce in the auto body event's post-secondary division where insiders say heavy favourites Ethan A. from Ontario's Centennial College in Ontario and Hamdan Waheed from Saskatchewan Polytechnic will compete in a series of grueling challenges meant to test their strengths as auto repairers.
The competition floor will be a hive of activity, with competitors demonstrating their expertise in real-world scenarios. Visitors will have the opportunity to observe these young professionals in action, gaining insight into the high standards and precision required in various trades and technologies.
Beyond the competitions, SCNC 2025 offers a wealth of interactive experiences. Attendees can engage in over 50 Try-A-Trade® and Technology activities, designed to provide hands-on exposure to different skilled trades and technologies. These activities are tailored to inspire and inform students, educators, and industry professionals about the diverse career opportunities available in the skilled trades.
The event also features several initiatives aimed at promoting inclusivity and diversity within the skilled trades. The Empowering Women in Trades booth will highlight the achievements and contributions of women in the industry, offering inspiration and guidance to aspiring tradeswomen. Additionally, the Skills Showcase will celebrate the skills of First Nations, Inuit and Métis people, providing a platform to explore the groups' rich cultural heritage and their connection to various trades.
The competition kicks off with the opening ceremony on May 28 at 4:00 p.m. at the Brandt Centre, attended by approximately 1,800 spectators, including competitors, their supporters, industry partners, government officials, special guests and the general public.
Throughout the event, attendees can also participate in networking opportunities, including the networking reception sponsored by UA Canada on May 28 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Mosaic Stadium. These gatherings provide a platform for industry professionals, educators and students to connect, share experiences and discuss potential career pathways in the skilled trades.
For those unable to attend in person, SCNC 2025 will be streamed live on Skills/Compétences Canada's YouTube channel, offering a virtual front-row seat to all the action. The live stream will include coverage of the competition, interviews with participants and industry leaders, and highlights from the opening and closing ceremonies.
