IDEAL Canada Wraps up Eighth Season of Battle of the Schools

This year, IDEAL Canada is celebrating 60 years of manufacturing in Canada. In the spirit of celebration, the company has given apprentices across the country another chance to show off their talents and celebrate their skills as burgeoning electricians with the Battle of the Schools.

IDEAL awarded over $25,000 in cash in prizes to apprentices and Canadian trade schools, in their continued support of the electrical industry’s next generation. In addition to the Battle of the Schools, held under the theme of “Wiring Better Futures”, IDEAL is also a big supporter of the Tools in the Trades Bootcamp, which offers young people an avenue into the trades by providing training, tools, and networking opportunities.

2023 marked the eighth season of its “highly charged” Battle of the Schools competition open to all electrical apprentices. The event took place this year between March 20th and October 27th, with over 50 events held at Canadian trade schools, IBEW and EJTC Training Centres. The competition centres around a wiring board that apprentices must complete successfully with the fastest time.

Over 600 student apprentices competed in the challenge this year, resulting in six regional winners including a National IBEW Champion and a National Trade School Champion.

Nathan Chapman from Medicine Hat College (AB)
IDEAL Canada Wraps up Eighth Season of Battle of the Schools
Nathan Chapman, Medicine Hat College (BC)

Daniel Ford of EJTC IBEW 213 (BC) took home the National IBEW title and Nathan Chapman from Medicine Hat College (AB) took home the Trade School title.

They were each awarded $2,000 in scholarships and a custom IDEAL Muskoka chair. Each of the regional winners were awarded $1,000 in scholarships and a custom IDEAL Muskoka chair. On top of that, the schools of the respective winners each received over $2,500 worth of IDEAL tools and supplies.

Congratulations to all the winners!

Daniel FordElectrical Joint Training Committee, IBEW 213BC
Nathan ChapmanMedicine Hat CollegeAB
Derek LamyAssiniboine Community CollegeMB/SK
Biagio IannantuonoIBEW 804 BreslauON
Lorenzo LosciutoAvironQC
Arezki TakherbouchtCCNB DieppeAtlantic

Related Articles


Latest Articles


Changing Scene

  • BC Hydro Making it Easier and More Affordable to Connect New Homes

    BC Hydro Making it Easier and More Affordable to Connect New Homes

    July 24, 2025 BC Hydro is supporting the construction of new housing developments in growing communities by advancing changes to streamline upgrades and reducing the cost of new customer connections to BC Hydro’s electricity grid. “As communities across B.C. grow, so does the need for essential housing. We are committed to ensuring we’re ready to… Read More…

  • Mitrex Sets Record with Largest BIPV Solar Panel Mural at SunRise Residential in Edmonton

    Mitrex Sets Record with Largest BIPV Solar Panel Mural at SunRise Residential in Edmonton

    July 22, 2025 Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV) manufacturer, Mitrex proudly announces that its transformative SunRise Residential project in Edmonton, Alberta, has earned the Guinness World Record for the largest solar panel mural globally. This landmark project showcases Mitrex’s innovative BIPV solar panels, blending cutting-edge solar technology with vibrant cultural artistry to redefine sustainable architecture. Sustainable Architecture with BIPV Spanning over 30,000 square feet, the Mitrex eFacade PRO plus… Read More…

  • Nexans Unveils a Cable Made with 100% Recycled Materials

    Nexans Unveils a Cable Made with 100% Recycled Materials

    July 24, 2025 Nexans has reached a major milestone in its sustainability journey by developing a prototype cable made entirely from recycled materials — a first in the company’s history. This innovation combines technical performance, industrial feasibility, and a drastically reduced environmental footprint, marking a decisive step forward in circular economy. A cross-continental success story… Read More…

  • EFC Welcomes New Manufacturer Member: MGM Transformers

    EFC Welcomes New Manufacturer Member: MGM Transformers

    July 24, 2025 Since 1974, MGM Transformers has produced tough and trusted transformers designed to get the job done right. As a leading manufacturer, the company employs a highly experienced and dedicated engineering team that excels in custom designs. MGM Transformers is committed to excellent quality and service, offering industry-leading lead times and exceptional customer service. MGM Transformers specializes… Read More…