UA Local 179 along with Saskatchewan Piping and many local members had the privilege to be a part of Skills Canada National Competition and trade show.  Through the tireless efforts of Ken Busch, Training Director, Chris Hendricksen, Assistant Training Coordinator, Tim Groendyk, and many others the event went off without a hitch.  UA Local 179 members and apprentices were asked to operate the Try-A-Trade booths which included soldering, threading, welding, pro press, orbital welding and fabricating and to also provide judges for the competitions.  We handled the setup and tear down of all the booths.  UA Local 179 teamed up with Trans Canada to demonstrate pipeline welding and quality assurance.  We had a first with a sprinkler fitting presentation project where Mike Chriest was put to the task.  It was a huge undertaking and commitment but was well worth it as thousands of high school kids and surrounding communities tried their hand at the Try-A-Trade booths, even Employment and Social Development Minister Pierre Poilievre gave it a go.  All in all it was a great experience and we look forward to the next challenge when it arises.

UA Local 179 would like to congratulate the following: Dylan Spicer who competed in the Steamfitter competition and won a silver medal and Craig Briant who competed and was awarded a plaque from the National Sprinkler Joint Committee and also won a silver medal.  We would also like to congratulate Will Rayner who competed in the Plumbing Competition and place 4^th overall.

Local 179 is very proud of the efforts and the professionalism of all those involved in the Skills Canada Nationals.  Check out photos from the event in our Gallery.

Unemployed Workers Help Centre If you hear family, friends, neighbors', etc mentioning they are or someone they know is having issues with EI, you can tell them that there is an outfit, the UWHC, which is supported by your union that gives help to any worker having trouble with their EI claim. Check out the website by clicking the link below: http://www.unemployedworkerscentre.org/