A glimpse into tomorrow’s talent at College of the North Atlantic

Provincial event challenges students across skilled trades and technologies; winners could represent Canada globally

Mohammad Fuaz Khan
Kicker

St. John’s, N.L. – College of the North Atlantic’s Prince Philip Drive campus is set to host the provincial Skills Canada competition Friday showcasing a day of rigorous challenges across skilled trades and technology.

John Barry, a graphic design instructor at the college, outlined the significance of the event.

“The Skills Canada competition is like the Olympics for skilled trades and technologies,” Barry explained. “It’s not only a test of the students’ abilities but also a celebration of careers in these essential industries.”

Competitors such as Nathan Murphy and Noah Jackman, both participating in graphic design, have been preparing since September under the guidance of their instructors.

“It’s a bit nerve-wracking, but we’re ready,” Murphy said. “The competition is a great opportunity, even just for the experience and the extra skills we’ve picked up along the way.”

Skills Canada competitions are tiered, with winners at the provincial level advancing to the national competition, this year in Quebec City, and possibly onto the World Skills Competition.

“It’s a huge honour to represent your country,” Barry noted, emphasizing the global scale and the high skill level of these events.

The competition is more than just a contest; it’s a rigorous training ground. Participants undergo extensive preparation, gaining not just technical skills but learning to perform under pressure – a trait highly valued in the workforce.

“Competing in Skills Canada means taking on extra training, focus, and commitment. It’s something employers look for,” Barry added.

Tomorrow’s event promises to be a showcase of dedication and talent, with an award ceremony scheduled for Friday evening to celebrate the winners. These victors will not only take home medals but also the chance to advance their skills on a national or even world stage, representing the best of Newfoundland and Labrador’s burgeoning talent.

For competitors like Murphy and Jackman, it’s an unprecedented opportunity. Despite the pressure, there’s an underlying excitement.

“We’ve been training hard, and this competition is a chance to see where we stand, not just locally but potentially on a bigger stage,” Jackman concluded.

As College of the North Atlantic prepares to host this pivotal event, it stands as a reminder of the critical role skilled trades and technologies play in shaping the future. The Skills Canada competition is not just a test of talent but a celebration of the potential and dedication of students ready to take on the world.