June 7, 2011

DSBN Technology Students Medal Up in La Belle Province 

Known for its marine heritage, ample beach front and Canal Days festival, Port Colborne can now boast to also being home to the top high-school welder in the country. Last week, Daniel Dressel, a student at Port Colborne High School, earned the honour by winning the gold medal in the welding challenge at the Skills Canada National Competition.

Modest about his great accomplishment, Daniel said he enjoyed the experience but also tried to treat the competition just like a regular job site.

The 16 year old student travelled to Quebec City alongside fellow students Gurtej Multani from E.L. Crossley and Niki Harris from Stamford Collegiate to represent the DSBN and test their skills amongst the best in Canada at the competition held from June 1-5. All three earned the right to compete at the nationals by winning gold at the provincial competitions held in May.

E.L. Crossley’s Gurtej Multani was also “wired” after his performance in the Electrical Installations challenge, where he earned a silver medal for his efforts. Originally interested in electrical work through a family connection, Multani worked very hard to become successful, devoting many extra hours to practicing in the school’s workshop.  

Harris, who was a cut above the competition at the provincials, had another strong showing at the nationals. Harris returns from Quebec City to her waiting clientele at Stamford who look to Niki for the latest styles.

“We are all extremely proud of Daniel, Gurtej and Niki,” says Mike Doyle, DSBN Skills Development Coordinator. “They all brought a very poised and professional approach to their individual competitions and were great ambassadors for the high-quality technology programs offered through DSBN schools.”

Daniel Dressel at the Podium

Daniel Dressel, Nikki Harris and Gurtej Multani pictured at the provincial competition