CCRA and Skills Canada

 Toronto, ON — June 1, 2026 — The Canadian Crane Rental Association (CCRA) proudly participated in the 2026 Skills Canada National Competition, working alongside key industry partners including BC Crane Safety, the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE), and the Operating Engineers Training Institute of Ontario (OETIO) to promote careers in crane operation and the skilled trades.

The national event concluded on Saturday, May 30 with spectacular closing ceremonies and medal presentations, celebrating excellence and achievement across a wide range of skilled trades disciplines.

Throughout the Skills Canada National Competition, the CCRA and its partners engaged directly with students, educators, and career seekers from across the country, showcasing the vital role crane operators and heavy equipment professionals play in building Canada’s infrastructure.

Other notable visitors who dropped in included Patty Hajdu MP, Minister of Jobs and Families, and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, and John Zerucell MP, Secretary of State, Labour.

With more than 550 competitors from all regions of Canada participating in over 40 skilled trade and technology competitions, the SCNC is the only national, multi-trade and technology competition for students and apprentices in the country. Competition winners have the chance to represent Canada at September’s WorldSkills Shanghai in China.

This collaboration highlighted a shared commitment to strengthening workforce development and meeting the growing demand for skilled labour in the crane and heavy equipment sectors.

“The Skills Canada National Competition provides an exceptional platform to connect with the next generation of skilled trades professionals,” said Claire Bélanger-Parker. “By collaborating with BC Crane Safety, IUOE, and OETIO, we demonstrated the strength of our industry partnerships and our shared commitment to safety, training, and workforce development across Canada.”

The partnership underscores a broader national effort to attract, train, and retain the next generation of skilled workers, as demand continues to grow across Canada’s construction and infrastructure sectors.

Through its participation, the CCRA and its partners:

• Increased awareness of careers in crane and heavy equipment operations
• Promoted industry-leading safety standards and certification pathways
• Encouraged youth and new entrants to pursue careers in the skilled trades
• Strengthened collaboration between industry, training organizations, and labour partners

About the Canadian Crane Rental Association (CCRA)

The Canadian Crane Rental Association represents crane rental companies and industry stakeholders across Canada, advocating for safety, regulatory harmonization, and workforce development while supporting a strong and sustainable crane industry.

Media Inquiries:  info@ccra-aclg.ca