Mr. Speaker, today I would like to recognize and pay tribute to all of the apprentices, journeypersons and employers who are working together to build a strong and self-reliant Northwest Territories.
Earlier this month, communities across the Territories celebrated Apprenticeship Week by recognizing and rewarding the achievements of this year's top graduating apprentices. The awards are given to apprentices who achieved the highest mark over 80 percent in their year of training. Over 35 awards were presented to apprentices in all the regions of the Northwest Territories.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to pass along my congratulations to the Apprentice of the Year, Jason Coakwell, of Kingland Ford, Hay River. Jason earned the title of Apprentice of the Year by obtaining the highest marks of all graduating apprentices.
I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the outstanding achievement of another Hay River apprentice, Cameron Locke. Cameron, who is working towards journeyperson status in auto body repair, completed two levels of training in one academic year, achieving top marks at both levels. He also received the Dean's Award from the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology for his efforts.
Mr. Speaker, Jason and Cameron are only two of the 300 apprentices who are registered in the NWT this year. They exemplify a sense of commitment and enthusiasm for their trade and their studies. Because of this, and support from industry, private business, NWT schools and Aurora College, the apprenticeship program in the Northwest Territories is one of the most successful in Canada.
The demand for skilled trades people remains at an all-time high. The government, by working with its partners, can help to find solutions to this current shortage. Together we can help to ensure the continuation of a successful apprenticeship program, but more than that, we can help to ensure that a qualified, skilled and professional workforce that meets the needs of employers is resident in the NWT. Local people meeting local needs -- the essence of a self-reliant community and economy.
Mr. Speaker, it is important to encourage youth and other employment seekers to consider the trades as a career. With over 40 trades available for certification in the NWT, there is plenty of opportunity to be a part of the tremendous economic growth we are currently experiencing.
A successful, economically viable and self-reliant future lies within the grasp of every resident of the NWT. The time is right for government, education providers and industry to work together in developing the skilled workforce required to achieve this future. Apprenticeship is just one of the tools we have to help ensure that this happens. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.
-- Applause