Thompson Rivers University (TRU) recently hosted the annual Skills Canada Cariboo Regional Skills Competition, bringing together highly skilled Grade 11 and 12 students from across the Kamloops-Thompson School District and other school districts.  

On March 6, 2026, the regional competition at TRU provided students with the opportunity to demonstrate their technical abilities and skills in a range of trades through hands‑on challenges completed within a specified time.

Skills Canada is a national, not‑for‑profit organization that works in partnership with employers, educators, labour groups, and governments to promote careers in skilled trades and technology to Canadian youth. Through these collaborations, Skills Canada helps address Canada’s future skilled labour needs while supporting students in discovering rewarding and meaningful career pathways.

At the Cariboo Regional Skills Competition, students completed a skilled task or project in a specified time. Gold medalists from each category have the opportunity to advance to the Provincial Skills Competition at the TradeX Center in Abbotsford on April 15, 2026.

2026 Cariboo Regional Skills Competition Medalists:

Automotive Service Technician

🏅 Gold – Theron McLarty, Clearwater Secondary School

Carpentry

🏅 Gold – McKinley Journeay, South Kamloops Secondary School

Welding

🏅 Gold – Ben Gerow, Sa‑Hali Secondary School

🥈 Silver – Ryan Trudeau, Sa‑Hali Secondary School

🥉 Bronze – James Koester, Kamloops Christian School

Congratulations to all the students who earned medals at the 2026 Cariboo Regional Skills Competition. The Kamloops‑Thompson School District is proud of all participating students for their dedication, skill, and commitment to excellence.

Story provided by Kerry Gairdner, District Vice-Principal of Career Programs