By Gail Smyth Skills Canada

In November, 2009, I was invited to participate in a Business Mission to explore the many renewable energy initiatives practiced in Germany. This trip organized by Canada's Technology Triangle Inc, was promoted as an opportunity for business leaders from the Waterloo Region to promote Ontario's Green Energy Act (GEA) and North America's first comprehensive Feed-in-Tariff (FIT). It truly was an experience of a life time and one I won't soon forget.

During my trip to Germany, I had discussions with the Chamber of Commerce, the Canadian Consulate and local businesses about the possibility of Ontario students interning in Germany to learn more about renewable energy sources. In the near future, I hope to be able to provide more in-depth information that will be suitable to share with students.

And, as a result of the knowledge we gained from the trip to Germany, the new Skills Work Booklet (available this spring) will include a section on the career opportunities that are available because of the emphasis now placed on renewable energy sources in Ontario.

On a local, Waterloo Region front, The Competition and the Communications Departments of Skills Canada -- Ontario (Maggie, Barry, Maresa, Carolyn and Emily) are working hard preparing to host the Ontario Technological Skills Competition to be held at RIM Park in Waterloo from May 17 - 19, 2010. It's a very exciting year for Skills Canada and we are pleased to be working in partnership with the National Secretariat to host the Canadian Skills Competition in Waterloo from May 20 - 23rd.

For additional information on Skills Canada visit www.skillscanada.com.