The annual Skills Canada Saskatchewan competition took place last week in Saskatchewan Polytechnic and Mount Royal Collegiate in Saskatoon with several North Battleford high school students placing in the medals.
The event, now in its 21st year, gives high school students, post-secondary students and apprentices an opportunity to showcase their talents in the skilled trades and technologies.
Competition categories are diverse; there are more than 55 skilled trade and technology competition areas from robotics and graphic design to hairstyling, carpentry and bricklaying. For the first time, the prestigious competition offered Aboriginal beading as a competition area. Fifteen students competed, including two from NBCHS, Rhiannon Dussion and Savannah Pierre-Weenie. Savannah Pierre-Weenie was awarded the gold medal.
Cam Taylor earned a gold medal in construction for the second year in a row and Jack Bullerwell won a silver in automotive technology. Other NBCHS competitors in Skills Canada were Graham Adamcryck and Grady Payne, who competed in video production.
Students who win gold medals at the provincial competition will be eligible to compete at the Skills Canada National competition, held May 28-29 in Halifax, N.S.
“The Provincial Skills Competition is our premier event,” Skills Canada Saskatchewan Executive Director Colin Phippard said. “The competition highlights the amazing talent found in our young people across the province, and helps encourage students to consider careers in the skilled trades and technology areas.”
Jim Hoffman is Skills Canada Saskatchewan’s Provincial Technical Committee chairperson for graphic design. He is a strong supporter of Skills Canada Saskatchewan and helped organize this year’s event.
“The Provincial Skills Competition allows our secondary and post-secondary students to showcase their skills and passion for various trades and technologies,” Hoffman said. “With their knowledge and desire, these students are well on their way to rewarding careers. The atmosphere in this competitive environment is intense. For educators, it may be one of the best professional development opportunities available.”
