Ryan James and Ella Kirkland. (Photos Supplied/Danelle VanSteelandt)

By Jaryn Vecchio

Incredible Talents

P.A. students set to compete at national skills competition

May 2, 2023 | 5:00 PM

Two Carlton students will be representing Prince Albert and Saskatchewan on a national stage.

Ryan James and Ella Kirkland both won gold medals at the 2023 Skills Canada Provincial Competition in Saskatoon, earning spots at Nationals happening later this month.

According to Skills Canada, these are the only multi-trade and technology competitions for students and apprentices in the country.

James came in first for electrical, while Kirkland topped the list for baking.

Ella Kirkland at provincial competition. (submitted photo/Danelle VanSteelandt)

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Kirkland told paNOW her competition involved baking different desserts over four hours. She said she’s had a love for baking for most of her life.

“Just came as a kid, baking with my family,” she said.

Despite her incredible baking skills, Kirkland said she plans on studying chemistry at the University of Saskatchewan.

As for James, he was given six hours to wire half a room. This included a doorbell, switches, and lights.

“I was almost perfect,” he said. “But I was the only one who finished.”

Ryan James at provincial competition. (submitted photo/Danelle VanSteelandt)

Just like Kirkland, James doesn’t have any plans to become an electrician. Instead, he wants to be an engineer.

“It’s a good backup plan,” he joked.

The National Competition is scheduled for May 25 and 26 in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

Kirkland explained she’s just happy to be going, while James is hoping both can bring back gold medals.

Meanwhile, three other students at Carlton won medals at this year’s provincial competition.

Katelyn Tait took home silver for public speaking, Troy Earing also earned silver in machining, while Naviah Johnson won bronze in photography.

Rachel Gibson, Sahas Mittal, Rylan Urban, Saugat Budhathoki, Jonathan Berger, Alexa Masko, and Dylan Silk also competed in various competitions but did not medal.

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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow