Released on March 27, 2026
Today nearly 300 high school and post-secondary students as well as apprentices are gathering in Regina to showcase their talents at the 2026 Skills Canada Saskatchewan Provincial Competition held at Campus Regina Public and Saskatchewan Polytechnic's Regina campus.
"Congratulations to everyone competing at this year's Skills Canada Saskatchewan Provincial Competition," Immigration and Career Training Minister Eric Schmalz said. "There is a bright future for the skilled trades and technology sectors in our province. We are thrilled so many young people are honing their skills in these high-demand career pathways."
Competitors will compete in more than 40 competition categories, including autobody repair, carpentry, cooking, hairstyling, graphic design, photography and welding. Medal winners may have the opportunity to join Team Saskatchewan at the Skills Canada National Competition May 28 and 29 in Toronto.
"I want to thank the sponsors, judges, volunteers and educators who make this competition possible," Skills Canada Saskatchewan Executive Director Krystal Nieckar said. "The time and money they invest in our provincial competition ensure it is successful and sustainable for years to come. We are so proud to host an event that allows young people to demonstrate their dedication and talent."
The public is welcome to watch the competitions at Saskatchewan Polytechnic's Regina campus and Campus Regina Public from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.
A career fair featuring hands-on activities will take place at Campus Regina Public in the school gym while competitions are taking place, and visitors can attend this event as well.
"Skilled trade employers tell us they're recruiting," Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission CEO Jeff Ritter said. "They are looking for people who like to solve problems and work with their hands. The competitors today have a head start already - they are demonstrating their commitment to being the best they can be in their chosen trades."
As of December 31, 2025, there are nearly 7,800 apprentices registered in Saskatchewan, the highest number in nearly a decade.
"Skilled trades are the backbone of our economy," Saskatchewan Polytechnic President and CEO Dr. Larry Rosia said. "With hundreds of thousands of tradespeople across Canada set to retire by 2028, the Skills Canada Saskatchewan Provincial Competition highlights the up-and-coming talent in these trade and technology fields while showcasing the career opportunities a polytechnic education can provide. I wish the very best of luck to all the competitors!"
Skills competitions are run globally and culminate in a WorldSkills competition held every two years. In 2026, the WorldSkills Competition will take place September 22-27 in Shanghai.
For more provincial competition details, visit: skillscanadasask.com.
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For more information, contact:Skills Canada Saskatchewan
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-373-6035
Email: krystaln@skillscanada.com
Cell: 306-612-1812
Saskatchewan Polytechnic
Saskatoon
Phone: 306-659-3866
Email: brianna.bergeron@saskpolytech.ca
Cell: 306-250-3978
Saskatchewan Apprenticeship and Trade Certification Commission
Regina
Phone: 306-537-4692
Email: chelsea.coupal@gov.sk.ca