Manitoba took home medals in categories including brick masonry, automated manufacturing, electronics and TV and video production. Manitoba placed second overall behind Ontario, which is significant, as it is only the second time that Manitoba has competed at the national level.

In total, Skills Canada Manitoba sent 85 high school, post secondary and apprenticeship students to the competition, where they competed against students from across Canada in 40 areas. The students began preparing for the national competition after competing in the 2nd Manitoba Skills Competition held April 8 at Red River College.

Skills Canada is a national non-profit organization supported by industry, education, labour and government. Most funding for Skills Canada is provided by Human Resources Development Canada, provincial and territorial governments, as well as industry sponsors.

Skills Canada's mission is "to champion and stimulate the development of excellence in technological and leadership skills in Canadian youth in order to strengthen our competitive edge in the global marketplace."

For more information please contact:

Debbie Leiter, Executive Director, Skills Canada Manitoba (204) 288-8146

Cathy Ward, NATIONAL Diamond Public Relations (403) 531-0331