Statement from Minister Hajdu ahead of WorldSkills Shanghai 2026

EmitenTrust.com GATINEAU, QC, Sept. 23, 2026 /CNW/ -- Today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, issued the following statement for the WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, China:

"Canada's economy is growing and our government is investing in the skilled trades workers who will help build its future. As we work with international partners and showcase Canadian talent on the world stage, we are also investing in the next generation of skilled workers here at home. Young Canadians are helping demonstrate the talent and innovation that will shape the future of our country.

From September 22 to 27, we are celebrating 31 talented young competitors who will represent Canada on a global stage at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. As the world's largest skills competition, WorldSkills showcases the determination and ingenuity of young people from around the globe while giving participants the opportunity to test their skills and learn from one another. These young Canadians are gaining hands-on experience and demonstrating the talent that will help shape the future of our communities and our economy.

Earlier this year, we announced the Government of Canada's $8 billion Team Canada Strong investment to recruit, train, and hire up to 100,000 new Red Seal skilled trades workers by 2030–2031. As Team Canada Strong programs launch this fall, more young Canadians will have the opportunity to develop their skills, pursue rewarding careers and play a direct role in building the homes and major projects our country needs.

Events like WorldSkills highlight the opportunities available in the trades and inspire more young people to see themselves in these careers. Through Team Canada Strong, we are helping turn that potential into opportunity by supporting apprenticeships and creating more pathways to rewarding careers.

These 31 young Canadians represent the very best of our country. Their dedication and talent reflect the bright future they are helping build for their communities across Canada. I wish them all great success as they showcase their skills and represent Canada in Shanghai."

Associated links

• Minister Hajdu outlines progress in implementing Team Canada Strong to recruit, train, and hire the next generation of skilled trades workers
• Backgrounder: Team Canada Strong
• Discover careers in the skilled trades
• Minister Hajdu promotes Team Canada Strong at Skills Canada National Competition in Toronto
• WorldSkills Shanghai 2026 - Skills Competences Canada

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SOURCE Employment and Social Development Canada