Between February 25 and February 27, more than 100 high school students from across Durham Region had the opportunity to showcase their abilities at a Regional Skills Competition hosted by Durham College (DC).

At the Oshawa campus, DC’s School of Media, Art & Design hosted the photography, television and video production, 2D and 3D animation and graphic design competitions. The School of Skilled Trades, Apprenticeship & Renewable Technology and the Centre for Food at DC’s Whitby campus were home to the auto service technology, welding, and culinary arts and baking competitions.

“Durham College is pleased to host this important event on an annual basis” said Charlotte Hale, associate dean, School of Media, Art & Design. “This competition gives top local students an opportunity to compete for a spot in the regional skills competition in May.  We are always impressed with the talent we see!”

Marco Cinello, layout supervisor for the SpongeBob movie was in town from Los Angeles, Calif. and agreed to act as a special guest judge for the 2D and 3D animation competition. The competition was also an opportunity for senior students and faculty to act as judges, while providing a great introduction to the learning environment at Durham College for visitors attending this event.

“It was a unique experience because I’ve never worked under such a time limit, it was really nerve wracking,” said Mackenzie Graham, a Grade 11 student at R.S. McLaughlin C.V.I. “I finished and I was really happy and surprised by the work I’d accomplished.”

Congratulations to:

• Noah Carr and Steven Taylor, Ajax High School, 2D animation;
• William Robertson and Alex Bakogeorge, Ajax High School, 3D animation;
• Melosha Ratnasingham, Pickering High School, graphic design;
• Mitchell Badgley, Maxwell Heights Secondary School, photography;
• Sam Huard and Devin Marino, Anderson CVI, TV & video production;
• Luke Marshall, Port Perry HS, auto service technology;
• Victoria Ruffle, Pine Ridge Secondary School, culinary arts;
• Samantha Crosby, Pine Ridge Secondary School, baking; and
• Glen Thompson, Anderson CVI,