In this episode, we sit down with Culinary Arts alumna Alyssa Paron, who takes us through her inspiring journey in the culinary world, from competing in the 2015 Skills Canada Alberta Competition, where she earned silver, to advancing to the national stage in Saskatoon later that same year.

Alyssa shares what it was like stepping into the high-pressure environment of culinary competition and how those experiences shaped her career path. Growing up in Alberta, she was also inspired by her family connection to the culinary industry; her grandfather was a well-known chef in the Edmonton area with experience working in restaurants across Jasper and Banff.

Her Skills journey did not end at competition. Alyssa reflects on how she stayed connected to the community by joining the Provincial Technical Committee (PTC) and becoming a judge, helping guide and support the next generation of competitors.

She also talks about her time studying at Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT), where she was mentored by instructor Ian Campbell, a key role model in her development as a chef and educator.

Today, Alyssa works as an Educational Laboratory Technician at NAIT, where she supports culinary students and instructors in the kitchen every day. She shares her passion for teaching, mentorship, and her long-term goal of becoming an instructor herself.

From competitor to mentor, Alyssa’s story is all about giving back, staying connected, and finding fulfillment in helping others build their skills and confidence in the culinary arts.

In this episode, we’re bringing you a special collection of advice from some of our incredible Skills alumni, just in time for the 2026 Provincial Skills Canada Competition. With the big event right around the corner, this episode is designed to help you feel confident, prepared, and ready to take on the competition.

Throughout the episode, you’ll hear valuable insights, encouragement, and tips from past competitors who have been in your shoes and know what it takes to succeed. From managing nerves to making the most of your experience, their advice is here to remind you that you belong on that competition floor.

You’ve already proven you have the skills and talent—that’s what got you here. Now it’s your time to showcase everything you’re capable of. We’re cheering you on and can’t wait to see you in action. Good luck, competitors!

In this episode, we sit down with alumnus Wynn Brown, who competed in Video Production in both 2023 and 2024. Alongside his teammate, Kiyan Karimaghaei, Wynn placed first at the 2024 Provincial Skills Canada Competition, earning their spot on Team Alberta and the opportunity to compete at the 2024 Skills Canada National Competition in Quebec City.

Wynn shares how he first got into film, the impact of his mentor Mr. Stevens from Foothills Composite High School, and how that encouragement led him to step into the Skills competitions. He offers valuable advice on improvisation in film, how to walk into competitions feeling prepared and confident, and what it takes to adapt on the fly in a fast-paced creative environment.

The conversation also dives into what Wynn is working on right now at SAIT, as well as his role as Board President of the Okotoks Film Festival. He talks about his excitement for this year’s upcoming youth screening and how the festival continues to inspire and encourage young people to explore filmmaking. Whether you’re a video production student, aspiring filmmaker, or film lover, the festival is a great place to showcase your work—or simply enjoy incredible local films on the big screen. Be sure to check out their website and socials to learn more.

Tune in now to hear all about Wynn’s journey through film, competitions, mentorship, and what’s next behind the camera.

In this episode, we sit down with alumnus Chase Cardinal, who competed from 2017–2018 in Job Skill Demonstration, showcasing his talent in special effects makeup and prosthetics application.

Chase starts by sharing how he first discovered special effects makeup and what initially drew him to the craft. He then reflects on the impact of his mentor from Lord Beaverbrook High School, a fashion teacher named Stephanie, who played a key role in encouraging and supporting his creative journey. From there, Chase dives into his Skills competition experience, explaining how competing helped him refine his techniques, build confidence, and truly hone his craft.

The conversation takes an exciting turn as Chase shares some incredible behind-the-scenes experiences from the film industry, including working with Glenn Griffin on the set of The Smashing Machine, where he assisted with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s prosthetics. He also talks about other notable projects he’s worked on, such as House of David and Die My Love, offering insight into what it’s really like to work in special effects makeup on professional film sets.

Chase wraps up the episode with thoughtful advice on breaking into the industry, emphasizing that everyone’s path looks different, as well as sharing tips for students considering competing at Skills. It’s an inspiring and fascinating conversation filled with creativity, mentorship, and unforgettable experiences.

Be sure to check out Chase’s work on Instagram @chase_sfx and tune in to hear all about his journey into special effects makeup and beyond. 

Welcome to another episode of the Team Canada Podcast Series!

In this episode, we sit down with Team Canada competitor Jacob McClelland, who will be representing Canada in CNC Milling at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.

Jacob’s interest in machining grew as he learned more about the precision, creativity, and problem-solving behind CNC Milling. He’s especially inspired by the idea that the small, detailed parts he creates can become essential components in major projects—including the kinds of parts used in spacecraft and advanced technology. That drive to build something bigger than himself has shaped his journey in the trade.

After two years of competing in Skills competitions, Jacob’s dedication and technical skill have propelled him all the way to Team Canada. Supported by his WorldSkills Canada Expert, Jurgen Hierholzer, and his Trainer, Tim Wong—a Skills Canada Alberta alumnus—Jacob continues to refine his craft as he prepares for the global stage.

This is only the beginning of Jacob’s story—we’ll be catching up with him again after the competition to hear all about his experience in the fall of 2026. Stay tuned as we continue to share the inspiring journeys of Alberta’s 12 Team Canada competitors.

In this episode, we’re joined by Workplace Safety alumna Annika Cameron. Annika began her Skills journey in Grade 10 after a teacher encouraged her to try the Skills Alberta competition — and that one “yes” turned into three years of competing and a spot on Team Alberta. In her second year, she proudly brought home a bronze medal.

Annika shares what the Workplace Safety competition is all about, what competitors can expect, and how to best prepare and train for success. She also reflects on her personal journey, the impact Skills has had on her confidence and career path, and what she’s doing now.

Tune in to hear Annika’s story and gain valuable insight into the world of Workplace Safety and the Skills experience.

In this episode we sit down with Kylar Bloomberg, representing Team Canada in Plumbing, as he prepares to compete on the world stage at the WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai in 2026. Kylar shares how his Skills journey began through mentorship and training with Justin Fisher, his trainer and a former WorldSkills plumbing competitor who represented Canada in 2017. He also talks about working closely with his WorldSkills Canada Expert, Kylar’s guidance and support as he prepares for international competition.

Kylar reflects on his experience in Skills competitions, what it takes to earn a spot on Team Canada, and how his training is progressing for WorldSkills Shanghai. He also explores opportunities to train outside of Canada and the importance of broadening his skills to compete at the highest level.

In this episode, we sit down with Bella Kehoe, a talented Graphic Design alumna whose Skills journey continues to come full circle.

Bella first competed in 2023, earning gold at the Provincial Skills Canada Competition and securing her spot on Team Alberta for the national competition in Winnipeg, where she went on to win bronze. She returned in 2024 and did it again, taking home gold provincially and representing Team Alberta at the Skills Canada National Competition in Quebec City.

But Bella’s story does not stop at competing. She came back in 2025 as an Alumni Ambassador at Provincials and now gives back to the program as a member of the Provincial Technical Committee for Graphic Design, helping shape the competition for future competitors. Currently on her journey to become a teacher, Bella hopes to one day bring her own students on a field trip to experience the Skills competitions firsthand.

Alongside her education goals, Bella continues to pursue her creative passion through her small business, Wild and Free Custom Apparel, which you can find on Instagram and Facebook. She also designed incredible pieces for Team Alberta during her 2024 competition. Be sure to check out those designs on our socials along with the episode post. 

Tune in to hear Bella talk about competition, creativity, giving back, and how Skills helped shape both her career and her future in education.

Welcome to another episode of the Team Canada Podcast Series!

In this episode, we sit down with Team Canada competitor Anika Jones, who will be representing Canada in Car Painting at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.

Anika’s path started at NAIT, where her passion for creativity and her love of cars came together in the world of automotive refinishing. Drawn to the blend of artistry, precision, and technical skill, Anika found her place in Car Painting—an environment where her creative instincts could shine.

Anika competed twice at the Skills Canada Alberta Provincial Competition, earning first place on her second attempt, which propelled her to Nationals. Her continued growth, discipline, and commitment to mastering her craft ultimately earned her a coveted spot on Team Canada.

Joined by her WorldSkills Canada Expert and Trainer, Car Painting alumna Cecile Bukmeier, Anika is now deepening her technique, elevating her finish quality, and preparing for the incredible challenge ahead as she trains for the world stage.

This is only the beginning of Anika’s story—we’ll be catching up with her again after the competition to hear all about her experience in the fall of 2026. Stay tuned as we continue to share the inspiring paths of Alberta’s 12 Team Canada competitors.

Welcome to another episode of the Team Canada Podcast Series!

In this episode, we sit down with Team Canada competitor Tyler Gunther, who will be representing Canada in Industrial Mechanics/Millwright at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.

Tyler’s journey began at SAIT, where he dove into his passion for the mechanical world. Incredibly, this was Tyler’s first year competing in the Skills competitions—and his talent, discipline, and determination propelled him all the way to Team Canada on his very first attempt. A true testament to his skill and focus.

Joined by his WorldSkills Canada Expert, Mohamed Flyes, and Trainer, Jason Parnell, Tyler continues to push his technical abilities, refine his precision, and strengthen his readiness as he prepares to take on the global stage.

This is only the beginning of Tyler’s story—we’ll be catching up with him again after the competition to hear all about his experience in the fall of 2026. Stay tuned as we continue to share the inspiring journeys of Alberta’s 12 Team Canada competitors.