Chad McConnell

My Skills Background
I competed in the WorldSkills Competition 2001, in Seoul, South Korea, in Automobile Technology. My experience with Skills opened my eyes to so many opportunities and showed me that even a small-town kid can reach the international stage.

I’m thrilled to be back with Skills/Compétences Canada as a Trainer, dedicating my time to supporting the next generation of skilled trade workers. As a former Competitor, I am especially grateful to everyone who guided and supported me along my Skills journey.

Training Champions
My approach to training a Competitor for the WorldSkills Competition is systematic: I focus on providing them with the tools, skills, and guidance they need to reach their full potential. I know that sometimes a Competitor can be their own toughest critic, so encouragement is a key part of my role. As a Trainer, what I love most is seeing individuals succeed, build confidence, and develop valuable life skills in the trades. My advice to Competitors is simple: have fun, embrace and learn from your training experience, and use it as a springboard for your career. Give it your all!

Why I Love Volunteering
When I was asked to be a Trainer for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026, I was thrilled! This role gives me the opportunity to deepen my knowledge and gain new experiences in my trade. Even after many years, I remain passionate about learning and exploring new technologies.