In a ceremony held at the Manitoba Legislative Building on May 7, the provincial government celebrated the accomplishments of 40 top-performing new journeypersons, acknowledging their excellence in trades and their significant contributions to Manitoba’s labour market.
Economic Development, Investment, Trade and Natural Resources Minister Jamie Moses highlighted the importance of trade skills and apprenticeships in the province.
“Your determination while maintaining high performance in your respective trades is admirable, and I am honoured to have been able to present awards to this distinguished group,” Moses said at the 32nd annual Apprenticeship Highest Achievement Awards.
The ceremony spotlighted two individuals for their exceptional achievements on the certification exam. Nelson Benevides was awarded the Ron Krishka Memorial Award for his outstanding performance among domestic applicants in the concrete finisher trade, while Jaspreet Singh received the Internationally Experienced Tradesperson Award for his achievements in the automotive service technician trade among international candidates.
Tanya Palson, chair of the Apprenticeship and Certification Board, emphasized the strategic importance of apprenticeship training in meeting the demands of Manitoba’s labour market and responding to industry needs. “Investing in apprentices in Manitoba is an investment into the skilled labour force and economic growth of our province,” Palson said.
The government also announced an additional investment of $1.5 million in apprentice technical training. This funding aims to enhance the skilled labour force, end the freeze on adult learning, and broaden apprenticeship opportunities to assist more Manitobans in securing stable employment and supporting their families.