May 15, 2019

Congratulations to Medicine Hat College (MHC) trades student, Alex Bowyer, and built environment engineering technology student, Donovan Fode, who both received bronze medals for their performances at the recent Provincial Skills Canada Competition in Edmonton, Alberta.

Bowyer, who won in the steamfitter/pipefitter category, also took home the Safety Award, while Fode was successful in the architectural design event. 

 “We have a great sense of pride for what the students have accomplished; they put a lot of time and effort into preparing for this competition and it shows,” says Dennis Beaudoin, dean of trades and technology at MHC.

Beaudoin mentions that he is excited for the opportunities it will present both students and is proud of the commitment from staff and faculty.

“Both students will have an opportunity to compete again, which is something that the instructors are mindful of when they recruit. They look for students with the right attitude and skills, and commit many hours to supporting them. It’s a huge team effort and something our division is very passionate about.”

Leading up to the event, Bowyer came to the college several times a week, worked on different skills and completed a mock project created by the instructors. Although he felt confident and well-prepared going in to the competition, the award-winning finish came as a surprise.

 “I was excited and pleased with myself, and the opportunity to even go to the skills competition was really appreciated. I’m thankful to my employer for giving me the time off and to my instructors for all the prep work they did with me. Those guys did a great job.”

Bowyer is particularly proud of the Safety Award.

“This award is something that I will take into the future with me. For me, getting that was the biggest takeaway as it made me realize that all the safety practices I’ve been taught my whole career are useful and I’m applying them correctly.”

For more information on the skills competition, visit: www.skillsalberta.com.

To learn about the Division of Trades and Technology, visit www.mhc.ab.ca.