Skillz & Thrillz: Alberta's Trade & Tech Youth

Skills Canada Alberta

Through in-depth conversations, we aim to provide valuable advice and insightful perspectives on the impact of the Skills Canada competitions on the careers and lives of our guests. Join us as we explore the journeys of Alumni and many others and uncover the lasting effects of their participation in the Skills Canada Competitions.

The views and opinions expressed by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Skills Canada Alberta or its affiliates. Our goal is to provide a platform for the diverse and unique perspectives and experiences of our Alumni and others in the Skills community. Overall, we are celebrating their experiences and journeys in the trades, technologies, and our competitions. The “Skills Canada Alberta” name and all forms and abbreviations are the property of its owner, and its use does not imply endorsement of or opposition to any specific organization, product, or service.

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#44
October 13 · 46 min
Bringing Art to Life: Amerrdhesh's Road to Silver in 2D Computer Animation
In this episode, we sit down with 2D Computer Animation alumnus Amerrdhesh Jeyasanger to hear about his incredible Skills journey. After placing first at the 2026 Provincial Skills Canada Competition, Amerrdhesh earned his spot on Team Alberta and headed to Toronto to compete on the national stage, where he brought home a silver medal. 2D Computer Animation is often competed as a team of two, making Amerrdhesh's journey even more impressive. Taking on the competition independently, he put his creativity, technical skills and determination to the test while bringing his artwork to life. Beyond his competition success, Amerrdhesh also took home the Team Spirit Award for his enthusiasm, positivity and ability to bring team spirit wherever he went during his time in Toronto. Tune in as Amerrdhesh shares his experience competing in 2D Computer Animation, the challenges he faced, what he learned along the way and what it means to compete on the national stage. From creativity and perseverance to teamwork and school spirit, this is a story you won't want to miss!
#43
October 2 · 1 hr 2 min
Stitched For Success: Kayla Klita's Fashion Technology Journey to Gold
In this episode, we sit down with Fashion Technology alumna, Kayla Klita, to talk about her incredible journey through Skills, discovering her passion for Fashion Technology, and what comes next. Kayla first competed at Skills in 2024, earning 6th place in Fashion Technology. She returned in 2025 with determination and took home gold at the Provincial Skills Canada Competition, earning her a spot on Team Alberta at the Skills Canada National Competition in Regina, where she brought home bronze on the national stage. In 2026, Kayla returned for her third Skills competition and had an incredible year, winning gold at both the Provincial Skills Canada Competition and the Skills Canada National Competition in Toronto. Her achievements went even further when she earned the highest overall Z score for the Best of Region ranking, making her the second ever recipient of the Terry Cooke Legacy of Skilled Excellence Scholarship. As the top scoring secondary student from Alberta, Kayla was awarded $5,000 per year for up to four years to support her post-secondary education. In this episode, Kayla shares how she found her passion for Fashion Technology, the experiences and challenges that shaped her journey, and what it has meant to compete at the provincial, national, and now scholarship level. She also gives us a look ahead at her return to the Skills competitions in 2027! Tune in to hear Kayla’s incredible story of passion, perseverance, and skilled excellence.
#42
September 4 · 49 min
Wired to Win: Emanuel's Industrial Control Journey
In this episode, we sit down with SAIT alumnus and Industrial Control Skills competitor Emanuel Quintero-Rodriguez to hear the story behind an incredible Skills journey. Emanuel competed in Industrial Control at the Provincial Skills Canada Competition in 2024, 2025, and 2026. In 2025, he earned gold at provincials, securing his place on Team Alberta and a spot at the Skills Canada National Competition in Regina, where he brought home bronze. Determined to keep pushing toward his goal, Emanuel returned to the 2026 Provincial Skills Canada Competition and once again claimed gold, earning his second opportunity to represent Team Alberta. This time, the Skills Canada National Competition took him to Toronto, Ontario, where Emanuel reached the top of the podium and became a national gold medalist! In this episode, Emanuel talks about the determination, discipline, and drive it took to reach his goals, what he learned throughout his three years of competition, and how his experiences shaped his journey. He also shares what it was like training alongside fellow alumnus Zack Hartle, the challenges he faced along the way, and the lessons that helped him go from provincial competitor to national champion.
#41
August 14 · 1 hr 7 min
From Competitor to Mentor: Inspiring the Next Generation with Nobel Chan
In this episode, we sit down with alumnus Nobel Chan from SAIT to talk about his incredible Skills journey and how the competition has shaped his career. Nobel first competed in Cabinet Making at the Provincial Skills Canada Competition in 2023, where he earned a silver medal. He returned in 2024, winning gold and securing his place on Team Alberta for the Skills Canada National Competition in Quebec City. There, he represented Alberta with pride and brought home the national silver medal. Since competing, Nobel has remained deeply involved with Skills Canada Alberta. In 2025, he joined the Provincial Technical Committee (PTC) as a judge, giving back to the competition that helped launch his career. Most recently, he volunteered as the Team Alberta 2026 Alumni Ambassador, travelling to Toronto to support competitors, share his experiences, and offer advice to help them succeed. Tune in as Nobel reflects on his competition experiences, the lessons he learned along the way, and why he plans to stay connected to Skills while pursuing his goal of becoming a woodshop teacher and inspiring the next generation of skilled trades professionals.
#40
July 31 · 46 min
One Shot, Two Golds: From First-Time Competitor to National Millwrights Champion
In this episode, join us as we sit down with Industrial Mechanics/Millwright alumnus Jack Butts from SAIT to hear about his incredible Skills journey. Competing at Skills for the very first time this year, Jack made an unforgettable impact by advancing all the way to the Skills Canada National Competition in Toronto, where he earned the Gold Medal. Jack shares what inspired him to compete, what it was like to experience Skills at both the provincial and national levels, and how the competition helped him grow both personally and professionally. He also talks about his passion for sharing his knowledge with others and why giving back to the skilled trades community is so important to him. Jack's journey is far from over. He will be returning next year to compete again and will continue to challenge himself within the Skills community. Jack also speaks on how he hopes to have the opportunity to compete on the world stage at WorldSkills Japan 2028, since next year's nationals is a qualifying year for worlds. Tune in to hear Jack's inspiring story and discover what it takes to compete at the highest level.
#39
June 29 · 41 min
Shear Determination: Kyla Smith's Climb to the Podium
In this episode, we sit down with Skills Canada Alberta alumna Kyla Smith, a student from Lord Beaverbrook High School, to discuss her journey through the Hairstyling competition. After competing at the Intermediate level in 2025, Kyla set her sights on returning to the competition in Senior Hairstyling—and she did just that, earning gold at the 2026 Provincial Skills Canada Competition and bronze at the 2026 Skills Canada National Competition in Toronto. Kyla shares how the competitions helped her develop her technical skills, confidence, and determination, as well as the lessons she learned along the way. From setting ambitious goals to overcoming challenges and performing under pressure, her story highlights the value of perseverance and the opportunities that Skills competitions can provide. Whether you're interested in hairstyling, considering competing in a Skills competition, or looking for inspiration to pursue your own goals, Kyla's experience offers valuable insights and encouragement. Tune in to hear how shear determination helped Kyla turn her goals into podium success and be sure to check out her hairstyling Instagram @kylabea_hairstylist!
#38
June 15 · 54 min
Glow For Gold: Jenna Holman's Aesthetics Journey from Competitor to Judge
In this episode, we sit down with Aesthetics alumna, Jenna Holman. Jenna competed in 2019, where she earned gold at the provincial level, securing her place on Team Alberta. That same year, she went on to represent the province at the Skills Canada National Competition in Halifax, where she brought home a bronze medal. Today, Jenna is a medical aesthetician and laser technician working at The Vanity Lab in Edmonton, where she serves as Senior Technician. She has continued her involvement in the Skills community as both a judge for the Aesthetics competition and a member of the Provincial Technical Committee (PTC), where she holds the role of Safety Officer. Throughout this episode, we explore Jenna’s journey from competitor to industry professional and the reasons she has chosen to remain involved in the Skills community long after competing. We also dive into her volunteer work during Skills Exhibition Days, where trades and tech experts came together to showcase their skills online. Jenna demonstrated how to perform a simple at-home facial, breaking down the basics of skincare and highlighting the importance of properly caring for your skin—your body’s largest organ. Jenna shares plenty of insightful tips and advice throughout the episode, making this one you won’t want to miss. And as Jenna reminds us: “Never forget your sunscreen!!”
#37
May 25 · 1 hr 2 min
Chef's Table to Judge's Table: Alyssa Paron's Full-Circle Culinary Arts & Skills Journey
In this episode, we sit down with Culinary Arts alumna Alyssa Paron, who takes us through her inspiring journey in the culinary world, from competing in the 2015 Skills Canada Alberta Competition, where she earned silver, to advancing to the national stage in Saskatoon later that same year. Alyssa shares what it was like stepping into the high-pressure environment of culinary competition and how those experiences shaped her career path. Growing up in Alberta, she was also inspired by her family connection to the culinary industry; her grandfather was a well-known chef in the Edmonton area with experience working in restaurants across Jasper and Banff. Her Skills journey did not end at competition. Alyssa reflects on how she stayed connected to the community by joining the Provincial Technical Committee (PTC) and becoming a judge, helping guide and support the next generation of competitors. She also talks about her time studying at Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), where she was mentored by instructor Ian Campbell, a key role model in her development as a chef and educator. Today, Alyssa works as an Educational Laboratory Technician at NAIT, where she supports culinary students and instructors in the kitchen every day. She shares her passion for teaching, mentorship, and her long-term goal of becoming an instructor herself. From competitor to mentor, Alyssa’s story is all about giving back, staying connected, and finding fulfillment in helping others build their skills and confidence in the culinary arts.
#36
May 1 · 12 min
Provincial Success Pro Tips: Insights from Skills Alumni
In this episode, we’re bringing you a special collection of advice from some of our incredible Skills alumni, just in time for the 2026 Provincial Skills Canada Competition. With the big event right around the corner, this episode is designed to help you feel confident, prepared, and ready to take on the competition. Throughout the episode, you’ll hear valuable insights, encouragement, and tips from past competitors who have been in your shoes and know what it takes to succeed. From managing nerves to making the most of your experience, their advice is here to remind you that you belong on that competition floor. You’ve already proven you have the skills and talent—that’s what got you here. Now it’s your time to showcase everything you’re capable of. We’re cheering you on and can’t wait to see you in action. Good luck, competitors!
#35
April 21 · 50 min
Frame By Frame: Wynn Brown's Video Production Journey at Skills Alberta
In this episode, we sit down with alumnus Wynn Brown, who competed in Video Production in both 2023 and 2024. Alongside his teammate, Kiyan Karimaghaei, Wynn placed first at the 2024 Provincial Skills Canada Competition, earning their spot on Team Alberta and the opportunity to compete at the 2024 Skills Canada National Competition in Quebec City. Wynn shares how he first got into film, the impact of his mentor Mr. Stevens from Foothills Composite High School, and how that encouragement led him to step into the Skills competitions. He offers valuable advice on improvisation in film, how to walk into competitions feeling prepared and confident, and what it takes to adapt on the fly in a fast-paced creative environment. The conversation also dives into what Wynn is working on right now at SAIT, as well as his role as Board President of the Okotoks Film Festival. He talks about his excitement for this year’s upcoming youth screening and how the festival continues to inspire and encourage young people to explore filmmaking. Whether you’re a video production student, aspiring filmmaker, or film lover, the festival is a great place to showcase your work—or simply enjoy incredible local films on the big screen. Be sure to check out their website and socials to learn more. Tune in now to hear all about Wynn’s journey through film, competitions, mentorship, and what’s next behind the camera.
#34
April 7 · 1 hr 17 min
From Skills Stage to Silver Screen: Chase Cardinal's Special Effects Journey
In this episode, we sit down with alumnus Chase Cardinal, who competed from 2017–2018 in Job Skill Demonstration, showcasing his talent in special effects makeup and prosthetics application. Chase starts by sharing how he first discovered special effects makeup and what initially drew him to the craft. He then reflects on the impact of his mentor from Lord Beaverbrook High School, a fashion teacher named Stephanie, who played a key role in encouraging and supporting his creative journey. From there, Chase dives into his Skills competition experience, explaining how competing helped him refine his techniques, build confidence, and truly hone his craft. The conversation takes an exciting turn as Chase shares some incredible behind-the-scenes experiences from the film industry, including working with Glenn Griffin on the set of The Smashing Machine, where he assisted with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s prosthetics. He also talks about other notable projects he’s worked on, such as House of David and Die My Love, offering insight into what it’s really like to work in special effects makeup on professional film sets. Chase wraps up the episode with thoughtful advice on breaking into the industry, emphasizing that everyone’s path looks different, as well as sharing tips for students considering competing at Skills. It’s an inspiring and fascinating conversation filled with creativity, mentorship, and unforgettable experiences. Be sure to check out Chase’s work on Instagram @chase_sfx and tune in to hear all about his journey into special effects makeup and beyond.
#33
March 24 · 36 min
Precision in Motion: Jacob McClelland's CNC Milling Adventure to Team Canada
Welcome to another episode of the Team Canada Podcast Series! In this episode, we sit down with Team Canada competitor Jacob McClelland, who will be representing Canada in CNC Milling at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. Jacob’s interest in machining grew as he learned more about the precision, creativity, and problem-solving behind CNC Milling. He’s especially inspired by the idea that the small, detailed parts he creates can become essential components in major projects—including the kinds of parts used in spacecraft and advanced technology. That drive to build something bigger than himself has shaped his journey in the trade. After two years of competing in Skills competitions, Jacob’s dedication and technical skill have propelled him all the way to Team Canada. Supported by his WorldSkills Canada Expert, Jurgen Hierholzer, and his Trainer, Tim Wong—a Skills Canada Alberta alumnus—Jacob continues to refine his craft as he prepares for the global stage. This is only the beginning of Jacob’s story—we’ll be catching up with him again after the competition to hear all about his experience in the fall of 2026. Stay tuned as we continue to share the inspiring journeys of Alberta’s 12 Team Canada competitors.
#32
March 9 · 43 min
Where Safety Meets Skill: Annika Cameron's Workplace Safety Competition Experience
In this episode, we’re joined by Workplace Safety alumna Annika Cameron. Annika began her Skills journey in Grade 10 after a teacher encouraged her to try the Skills Alberta competition — and that one “yes” turned into three years of competing and a spot on Team Alberta. In her second year, she proudly brought home a bronze medal. Annika shares what the Workplace Safety competition is all about, what competitors can expect, and how to best prepare and train for success. She also reflects on her personal journey, the impact Skills has had on her confidence and career path, and what she’s doing now. Tune in to hear Annika’s story and gain valuable insight into the world of Workplace Safety and the Skills experience.
#31
February 17 · 23 min
From Skills to Shanghai: Kylar Bloomberg's Plumbing Path to Team Canada
In this episode we sit down with Kylar Bloomberg, representing Team Canada in Plumbing, as he prepares to compete on the world stage at the WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai in 2026. Kylar shares how his Skills journey began through mentorship and training with Justin Fisher, his trainer and a former WorldSkills plumbing competitor who represented Canada in 2017. He also talks about working closely with his WorldSkills Canada Expert, Kylar’s guidance and support as he prepares for international competition. Kylar reflects on his experience in Skills competitions, what it takes to earn a spot on Team Canada, and how his training is progressing for WorldSkills Shanghai. He also explores opportunities to train outside of Canada and the importance of broadening his skills to compete at the highest level.
#30
February 6 · 38 min
Designing the Future: Bella Kehoe's Skills Alberta & Graphic Design Journey
In this episode, we sit down with Bella Kehoe, a talented Graphic Design alumna whose Skills journey continues to come full circle. Bella first competed in 2023, earning gold at the Provincial Skills Canada Competition and securing her spot on Team Alberta for the national competition in Winnipeg, where she went on to win bronze. She returned in 2024 and did it again, taking home gold provincially and representing Team Alberta at the Skills Canada National Competition in Quebec City. But Bella’s story does not stop at competing. She came back in 2025 as an Alumni Ambassador at Provincials and now gives back to the program as a member of the Provincial Technical Committee for Graphic Design, helping shape the competition for future competitors. Currently on her journey to become a teacher, Bella hopes to one day bring her own students on a field trip to experience the Skills competitions firsthand. Alongside her education goals, Bella continues to pursue her creative passion through her small business, Wild and Free Custom Apparel, which you can find on Instagram and Facebook. She also designed incredible pieces for Team Alberta during her 2024 competition. Be sure to check out those designs on our socials along with the episode post. Tune in to hear Bella talk about competition, creativity, giving back, and how Skills helped shape both her career and her future in education.
#29
January 19 · 22 min
Primed & Polished: Anika Jones' Car Painting Route to Team Canada
Welcome to another episode of the Team Canada Podcast Series! In this episode, we sit down with Team Canada competitor Anika Jones, who will be representing Canada in Car Painting at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. Anika’s path started at NAIT, where her passion for creativity and her love of cars came together in the world of automotive refinishing. Drawn to the blend of artistry, precision, and technical skill, Anika found her place in Car Painting—an environment where her creative instincts could shine. Anika competed twice at the Skills Canada Alberta Provincial Competition, earning first place on her second attempt, which propelled her to Nationals. Her continued growth, discipline, and commitment to mastering her craft ultimately earned her a coveted spot on Team Canada. Joined by her WorldSkills Canada Expert and Trainer, Car Painting alumna Cecile Bukmeier, Anika is now deepening her technique, elevating her finish quality, and preparing for the incredible challenge ahead as she trains for the world stage. This is only the beginning of Anika’s story—we’ll be catching up with her again after the competition to hear all about her experience in the fall of 2026. Stay tuned as we continue to share the inspiring paths of Alberta’s 12 Team Canada competitors.
#28
January 9 · 25 min
Mastering the Mechanics: Tyler Gunther's Rise to Team Canada
Welcome to another episode of the Team Canada Podcast Series! In this episode, we sit down with Team Canada competitor Tyler Gunther, who will be representing Canada in Industrial Mechanics/Millwright at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. Tyler’s journey began at SAIT, where he dove into his passion for the mechanical world. Incredibly, this was Tyler’s first year competing in the Skills competitions—and his talent, discipline, and determination propelled him all the way to Team Canada on his very first attempt. A true testament to his skill and focus. Joined by his WorldSkills Canada Expert, Mohamed Flyes, and Trainer, Jason Parnell, Tyler continues to push his technical abilities, refine his precision, and strengthen his readiness as he prepares to take on the global stage. This is only the beginning of Tyler’s story—we’ll be catching up with him again after the competition to hear all about his experience in the fall of 2026. Stay tuned as we continue to share the inspiring journeys of Alberta’s 12 Team Canada competitors.
#27
Dec 26, 2025 · 27 min
Crafted for Competition: Logan Peters' Path to Representing Canada in Carpentry
Welcome to another episode of the Team Canada Podcast Series! In this episode, we sit down with Logan Peters, who will be representing Canada in Carpentry at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. Logan’s carpentry journey began back in Grade 11, when he first discovered the thrill of competition. He continued to sharpen his skills through post-secondary training, eventually competing at the post-secondary level as well. But his biggest surprise came after the Skills Canada National Competition—Logan didn’t even know he had earned a spot on Team Canada until Dave King, Dean of Trades at Lakeland College, delivered the exciting news. Logan’s story carries even more significance as Carpentry for Canada makes its long-awaited return to WorldSkills. With the guidance of his Trainer, David Jones, and WorldSkills Canada Expert, Paul Bettio, Logan is helping re-establish Canada’s presence on the global carpentry stage. From finding his competitive streak in high school to stepping onto the world stage, Logan shares how he’s preparing, what motivates him, and what it means to represent Canada in a trade he loves. This is only the beginning of Logan’s international journey — we’ll catch up with him again after the competition to hear all about his experience. Stay tuned as we continue to highlight the inspiring stories of Alberta’s Team Canada competitors.
#26
Dec 9, 2025 · 49 min
Full Voltage Focus: Keegan Sturge's Electrical Journey to Team Canada
Welcome to another episode of the Team Canada Podcast Series! In this episode, we sit down with Keegan Sturge, who will be representing Canada in Electrical Installations at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. Hailing from Fort McMurray, Keegan is making history as the first-ever competitor from Fort McMurray to take the world stage at WorldSkills. His Skills journey began back in high school, where he first got involved in Skills competitions. He continued competing through his time at Keyano College, steadily developing his technical abilities, precision, and competitive edge. Since 2022, Keegan has consistently competed at Skills Canada Alberta competitions, each level pushing him further and preparing him for this next milestone. Supported by his Trainer Dawn Ohama and WorldSkills Canada Expert Jason Taylor, Keegan is now training to represent Canada among the world’s best in Shanghai. This is just the beginning of Keegan’s story — we’ll catch up with him again after the competition to hear all about his experience. Stay tuned as we continue spotlighting the inspiring journeys of Alberta’s Team Canada competitors.
#25
Nov 25, 2025 · 25 min
Cut, Carve, Compete: Tate McGarry's Path to Team Canada
Welcome to another episode of the Team Canada Podcast Series! In this episode, we sit down with Tate McGarry, who will be representing Canada in Cabinet Making at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. Tate’s love for woodworking started long before his time at SAIT, where he later honed his skills and discovered his competitive drive. After first competing in Carpentry, he found his niche in Cabinet Making, a trade that perfectly combines his creativity and precision. His commitment to excellence has taken him from the Skills Canada National Competition to earning a coveted spot on Team Canada. Joined by his WorldSkills Canada Expert and Trainer, Harold Bergmann, Tate shares insights into his craft, his preparation, and his upcoming training trip to Germany in November 2025 as he gears up for the international stage. This is just the beginning of Tate’s story — we’ll catch up with him again after the competition to hear all about his experience. Stay tuned as we continue to highlight the inspiring journeys of Alberta’s Team Canada competitors.

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