The Canadian Sheet Metal Apprentice Competition was held during the 50th Annual Canadian Sheet Metal and Roofers Conference in Edmonton on July 8-11, 2026. Congratulations to Bryan Iwata of Modern Niagara, our Level 4 winner of the 2025 Annual SMWTC Apprentice Contest, who proudly represented SMART Local 280 and SMACNA-BC on the national stage at the Canadian competition.
The milestone event brought together apprentices, sheet metal professionals, industry leaders and union representatives from across Canada to showcase skills, share knowledge and celebrate excellence in the trade. Congratulations to Bryan and all the apprentices who competed, as well as the organizers, contractors and industry partners who continue to create opportunities for apprentices to challenge themselves, showcase their talent and build connections across the industry.
Watch Bryan and highlights from the competition on YouTube.
From Contestant to Career Opportunities:
Bryan Iwata
For Bryan Iwata, entering the 2025 SMWTC Apprentice Contest opened a door he didn’t expect. That experience led him to compete nationally in 2026, building his confidence, challenging his skills and expanding what he saw as possible for his career.
The national competition pushed Bryan outside his comfort zone —f rom completing drafting by hand rather than AutoCAD to adapting to different terminology and competing alongside apprentices from across Canada. He describes the experience as empowering, eye-opening and ultimately life-changing. Bryan’s journey continues at SMWTCS, where he has now joined the instructional team as a math tutor.
“Sign up, show up and give it a try. Get ready to be uncomfortable — but trust yourself. It builds your confidence, makes you a better tradesperson and opens your eyes to opportunities you may not have considered.” — Bryan Iwata
Consider being a competitor and see where it takes you! Register with Astrid (astrid@smwtcs.ca) for the 2026 SMWTC Apprentice Contest on October 24, 2026.
