REGINA, Sask. — The Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission (SATCC) hosted its 26th annual Apprenticeship Celebration event Conexus Arts Centre in Regina Friday.
Over 400 guests attended to celebrate excellence in apprenticeship and the skilled trades. More than 50 award winners were recognized for their contributions to the apprenticeship system in Saskatchewan.
"Every day, skilled tradespeople enhance the quality of life for the people of Saskatchewan," Immigration and Career Training Minister Eric Schmalz said. "This event is an opportunity to recognize their hard work, work that keeps our province moving forward. Congratulations to all of the award winners and thank you for your contributions to our province."
The largest award category recognizes the Outstanding New Journeypersons who scored the highest marks on their respective journeyperson certification exams the previous year. Other SATCC awards include the Apprenticeship Lifetime Achievement Award and the Outstanding Instructor and Employer awards.
"On behalf of the commission board of directors, congratulations to the award winners," SATCC Board Chair Bryan Leier said. "The apprenticeship system in Saskatchewan succeeds because of co-operative partnerships built over decades between employers, unions, training providers, the SATCC and the Government of Saskatchewan. These partners and supporters work together to sustain an exceptional apprenticeship system."
Industry organizations, training providers and employers, such as the Electrical Contractors Association of Saskatchewan, Gabriel Dumont Institute, Mechanical Contractors Association of Saskatchewan, Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT), and Young's Equipment also use the celebration as a platform to celebrate their own scholarships and award winners.
More than 20 organizations sponsored the event this year, including the Construction Opportunities Development Council (CODC), Finning Canada, Bunge, Alliance Energy, K+S Potash Canada and the Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association.
The United Association of Plumbers and Pipefitters, Local 179 (Local 179) is this year's largest sponsor.
"Journeypersons are the backbone of Saskatchewan's growth and prosperity," Local 179 Director of Training Brad Funk said.
"By supporting apprentices on their journey to becoming certified journeypersons, we are building a stronger, more skilled Saskatchewan for generations to come. On behalf of Local 179, I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to all apprentices and newly certified journeypersons on their outstanding accomplishments. You are not only achieving an important milestone in your careers, but you are also becoming an essential part of building Saskatchewan's future."
To learn more about the Apprenticeship Celebration Dinner, visit: saskapprenticeship.ca/apprenticeship-celebration-dinner.
