Ontario Apprentices Lead In 2007 Nationals

Ontario apprentices made an impressive showing at the 32nd annual Canadian Sheet Metal Apprenticeship Competition held in Niagara Fall, July 19 to 22, winning second and third place.  Anthony Potter (Rozell Inc.), who took first place in the provincial competition in 2006, captured second at the nationals, while Yasar Raja (Flynn Canada) took third after winning second place provincially.  First place belongs to Casey Wilson (Associated Sheet Metal) hailing from Victoria B.C.  Overall, ten apprentices from across Canada competed in the event organized by the Sheet Metal Workers Canadian Council.

Apprentices are put through a rigorous set of written and practical exams where they are tested for their knowledge of math, trigonometry, drafting and pattern development.  The tests culminate in a craftsmanship trial where competitors are required to execute a fabrication in copper, demonstrating their dexterity with hand skills trained in the skills and techniques of the sheet metal trade. 

This year the fabrication test, held out of doors at Queen Victoria Park with Niagara Falls as a back drop, making a memorable moment for apprentices who can now claim that they competed in front of one of the world’s seven wonders.  OSM was represented by its president Harry Vogt and Larry MacDonald [correct spelling?] chair of the Committee on Education and Training.  

The line of completed competition pieces, a fully functional hand pump with copper bucket, displayed just below the head table at the awards banquet Saturday night at the Hilton Niagara Falls, bore witness to the prowess of a new generation of sheet metal craftsmen.
Note: Crossflow thanks Karen Patitucci for providing competition details and photographs.