WorldSkills Calgary 2009
About the Competition
On May 26, 2008, the Government of Alberta announced $24 million in support for the WorldSkills competition to be held in Calgary from September 1–7, 2009. WorldSkills competitions develop and promote high performance among young people in skilled trades and technologies. These competitions also provide an important opportunity to increase the profile of trades and technologies as challenging and rewarding career options while highlighting the invaluable contributions they make to the economy. Up to 1000 competitors from secondary schools and post-secondary institutions and 150 000 visitors are expected to take part in the event.
Transportation to the Competition
Students would benefit greatly from experiencing the WorldSkills Calgary 2009 competition first-hand. By attending the competition, they can develop a greater appreciation of the importance of trades and technology careers. Alberta Education will provide up to $4 million in financial support to help school authorities (public, Catholic, Francophone and charter schools) should they choose to transport students to the WorldSkills competition in Calgary. While the funding can be used to help cover costs associated with the transportation of students from any grade level, Alberta Education has developed the allocation based on having all Grade 9 and Grade 10 students attend. These students are just beginning to think about career choices and associated course work. As such, as a group, they may benefit most from attending the WorldSkills competition and are specifically encouraged to attend.
Skills Road Show
Alberta Education has provided funding to WorldSkills Calgary 2009 for a Skills Road Show to travel throughout Alberta this year. The Skills Road Show will help promote the 2009 event as well as trade and technology careers. It includes an interactive component called Try-A-Trade, which features hands-on activities. Schools are encouraged to book the Skills Road Show for career and other community events.
For Further Information
Further information on WorldSkills Calgary 2009, including details on transportation and the Skills Road Show, is available through the WorldSkills Web page.
