Three Georgian Bay Secondary School (GBSS) students competed in the fifth-annual Regional Technological Skills Challenge March 29th at Georgian College in Owen Sound.
The Regional Tech Skills Challenge is sponsored by both the Bluewter District School Board and the Grey-Bruce Catholic School Board and is a way of promoting the opportunities available to students in the skilled trades sector. The competition focuses on seven areas: auto servicing, home building, small engine repair, welding, electrical, hairstyling, and culinary arts.
"This is an exciting opportunity for Bluewater technological education students to showcase their talents and skills," said Bluewater Superintendent of Secondary Education, Alana Murray who was at the event, observing students competing in all fields and presenting the awards at the end of the day.
GBSS students Devon James, Josh Malloch and Billy-Joe Harvey competed in the culinary arts challenge creating some delicious and masterfully presented chicken dinners. Though none of them placed in the day's events, all felt this was a rewarding and important opportunity for students.
"Competitons like this are important because you get a lot of good experience and you get to see everybody from around the whole region," said Harvey before the awards ceremony.
Representatives from the Ministry of Training Colleges and Universities Apprenticeship Branch were also at Georgian College to answer any questions from students regarding apprenticeships and the trades.
"This competition really brings to light the opportunities that are out there," said Ministry representative Cindy Baker. "The trades are exciting and let students get out more and gain some first-hand experience."
In its five-year history, the Regional Tech Skills Challenge has grown drastically from its humble beginning of 15 students competing to over 100 now from all 13 high schools across Bluewater and both Catholic high schools in the region.
The increase of interest is an inspiration and a sign that the school boards are succeeding in their efforts to address the impeding skilled labour shortage.
