Sixteen students from four Ontario secondary schools competed in the Secondary School Student Challenge at the Skills Center exhibit during CMX/CIPHEX 2006. The challenge provided students currently enrolled in a related secondary school technical program with the opportunity to showcase their HVAC proficiency, including: practical applications; theoretical understanding; basic technical knowledge; as well as mock interviews with potential employers. First place winner Josh Pond, Elmira District Secondary School, won an iPod. Second and third place went to Jonathan Forwell and Menno Wicher, respectively, Elmira District Secondary School.

The Post-Secondary Heating System Technician Competition pitted post-secondary students from across the province in competition. Some of the industry's best young technicians competed in a test of practical skills in electrical and mechanical troubleshooting, system connection, combustion, service, and maintenance. The hands-on portion of the competition was supplemented by a written theoretical test and a job interview to determine the overall provincial winner. Nick D'Alessandro, Mohawk College, won the gold medal; Cory Hoffer, Mohawk College, won the silver medal; and Don Faithful, George Brown College, won the bronze medal.