DSBN Students Earn Gold at National Skills Challenges 

Two DSBN students have earned the highest honour in the country for students studying the skilled trades. E.L. Crossley’s Travis Gabryelski and Elijah Schonewille from Port Colborne High School both earned gold medals at the National Skills Competitions held in Toronto last week. Travis won gold for his performance in the electrical installations challenge, while Elijah finished first in the welding competition.  

This is the first time two DSBN students won gold at the nationals in over 17 years of competitions. DSBN Technology Consultant Kevin Graham said that both students did an outstanding job representing the Board and their schools. “Their impressive skill, dedication and hard work made these results possible,” said Graham. 

Graham also congratulated Travis’ and Elijah’s teachers Marc Demers and Vic Barker for the mentorship, guidance and encouragement they provide to students on an everyday basis. Both Travis and Elijah are part of the Specialist High Skills Majors programs at their schools.  

This is a qualifying year for the World Skills Competitions, which will be held in Brazil in August, 2015. Graham said he is hopeful that both Elijah and Travis will be selected to compete as part of Team Canada.