Following its success at the Ontario Technological Skills Competition earlier this month, Durham College is proud to announce that Ryan Voscek, a Plumber apprenticeship student, has taken first place in the Plumbing category at the 18th annual Skills Canada National Competition, which took place in Edmonton, Alta. from May 14 to 15.

The win marks Voscek’s second gold medal in a three-week time span, he also received gold in the Plumbing category at the Ontario Technological Skills Competition, which took place in Waterloo, Ont. from April 30 to May 2.

“On behalf of everyone at Durham College I congratulate Ryan on his second gold medal win,” said Judy Robinson, vice-president, Academic, Durham College. “We are very proud of his continued success, which is a clear reflection of his training here at the college and his dedication to excellence.”

Taking place at the Edmonton EXPO Centre, the Skills Canada National Competition is Canada’s Biggest Trade and Technology Challenge with 500 competitors and 10,000 spectators. Contestants compete and are evaluated in 40 different trades and technology areas using industry standards and established work practices including quality of work, cleanliness, skill level, safety and creativity. ”

Competing at the Skills Canada National Competition was an amazing opportunity and I am honoured to have represented Durham College and Ontario at the national level,” said Voscek. “My success at the competition can be linked to the training I received at the college and in the work field. I always fully commit to using my skills in the most effective way possible – whether it’s during a competition or on the job. I would like to send huge thanks out to Professor John Platnar and the Durham College Plumbing faculty for putting on such a great program and to everyone who supported me throughout this amazing experience.”

A national, not-for-profit organization founded in 1989, Skills Canada works with employers, educators, labour groups and governments to promote skilled trades and technology careers among Canadian youth. This includes offering experiential learning opportunities including skilled trades and technology competitions through regional, provincial/territorial, national and international events and skilled trade awareness programs.

Voscek was joined at the competition by third-year Computer Systems Technology student Mike Wade and third-year Computer Systems Technology student Alistair Belyea, who also competed at the Ontario Technological Skills Competition. Wade and Belyea received gold and silver in the IT Network Systems and Security Administration category at the Ontario-based event.

“We are extremely proud of all of the students who participated at the Skills Canada National Competition, which provides an excellent opportunity for them to demonstrate their skills and talent at the national level,” added Robinson. “Combined with their success at the Ontario Technological Skills Competition, Ryan, Mike and Alistair have done a remarkable job representing Durham College this past month and we are extremely proud of all of their hard work. I congratulate each on a job well done and am confident they will find success in their future career paths.”