Holy Rosary High School (HRHS) students had the unique stage to bridge the gap between the classroom and the workforce.
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On Feb. 27, that stage was Lakeland College’s Vermilion campus, where HRHS students put their technical prowess to the test.
The results were impressive. Twenty-eight competitors represented the school. They secured a massive haul of medals. Now, 17 students are moving on to the provincial skills competition in Edmonton.
For these participants, the event was more than a contest. It was a high-pressure demonstration of learning by doing. Whether sparking a torch or framing a building, these students proved their talent.
Grade 12 student Esther Omoroeion reached a major milestone this year. Alongside her partner, Kendra Lamoth, Omoroeion captured the gold medal in video production. This was a step up from the bronze medals they earned in previous years.
“It was really surprising,” Omoroeion said. “The last two years we got bronze. It felt great to finally push through.”
Omoroeion credits her success to her teacher, Skye Ferguson, who recognized her talent back in Grade 8. This year, the team used a professional strategy. Omoroeion captured high-quality B-roll while her partner managed the editing.
“We focused on a strong, engaging script,” Omoroeion said, noting her advice to others is simple: “Just go for it. Even participating is an accomplishment.”
Other students built success with their hands. Grade 10 student Jayden Scarf entered the carpentry arena for the first time. He earned a silver medal for building a chicken coop.
Scarf views the competition as a path toward becoming a millwright. Despite the ticking clock, he stayed focused on the fundamentals.
“It was stressful,” Scarf explained. “You have to focus on the parts that are marked. Make sure the important parts are done well.”
He learned a valuable lesson in mindset. “Focus on time management. If something goes wrong, move on to what gets you more points,” he said.
The success at Lakeland College is just the start. The advancing Raiders now look toward the provincial skills competition. This event takes place at the Edmonton Expo Centre on May 6-7.
The stakes are high. Gold-medalists in Edmonton will advance to the Skills Canada national competition. That event will be held in Toronto later that month. As they prepare for the provincial stage, their goals are clear. They plan to stay focused, be accurate and keep improving.
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