Halifax, Nova Scotia – August 28, 2019
While his family watched with pride, Zach Walsh earned his place on Team Canada in Refrigeration & Air Conditioning. This was a result from his performance in the WorldSkills Selection Event, held in conjunction with the Skills Canada National Competition that took place in Halifax, Nova Scotia, May 26-29, 2019. Walsh was one of 32 members of the WorldSkills Team Canada 2019, competing at the 45th WorldSkills Competition in Kazan, Russia from August 22-27. He will be represented, and came home with a honourable Medallion of Excellence in his contest area.
Walsh was excited to be representing Nova Scotia, as well as Canada, as he was the only competitor advancing to WorldSkills from Nova Scotia. “I love my trade, my country, and to compete. When I began working in this trade, I never dreamed I’d be representing Canada on a world-stage in refrigeration and air conditioning. It’s an honour and privilege.”
Over 1,300 competitors from 70 countries and regions competed in over 50 skill areas representing six sectors: Manufacturing and Engineering Technology; Information and Communication Technology; Construction and Building Technology; Transportation and Logistics; Creative Arts and Fashion; Social and Personal Services.
“Zach’s skills journey has left everyone awe-inspired. He’s one of the most focused and determined competitors we’ve ever had,” said Courtney Gouthro, Executive Director of Skills Canada – Nova Scotia. “As we watched him confidently prepare for the competition experience of a lifetime, we knew he would thrive in the international spotlight.”
Walsh won gold in his contest area at the Nova Scotia Skills Competition, and the Skills Canada National Competition in both 2017 and 2018. He then earned his spot on Team Canada at the WorldSkills Selection event against Canada’s other top competitor in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. He is currently in his third year of apprenticeship after completing his program at NSCC. This opportunity would not have been be made possible without the generous support and world-class training from the Nova Scotia Community College, Nova Scotia Apprenticeship Agency, Department of Labour and Advanced Education, and Employment and Social Development Canada.
