Two R.D. Parker Collegiate vocational students attended the Skills Manitoba competition in Winnipeg on April 13.

Grade 11 automotive student Garret Dobson and Grade 12 carpentry student Zackarrie Pittman were the lucky two that made the trip, and both spoke enthusiastically about the event.

“ It was enjoyable all the way around, the competition itself and meeting new people,” said Dobson, “it’s a way for someone my age to show our passion for knowledge and know-how of a skilled trade.”

Dobson competed alongside 11 other student mechanics from across the province and was tested on his individual ability to properly diagnose, repair and/or adjust power recreation equipment, as well as identify components and a evaluate parts to exacting industry standards.

Pittman soldiered through a six-hour competition with a broken hand to construct an enclosed sandbox. Zackarrie’s proficiency in blueprint reading, use of hand and power tools, and a knack for residential framing and rafter cutting were all put to the test.

“The competition was a good experience and I learned a lot from it, such as it’s hard to work under pressure even with a broken hand,” said Pittman, “the experience is something I wish I could do again.”

Pittman’s sandbox and Dobson’s two-stroke engine both came back to R.D. Parker Collegiate and on display in the school forum.

The trip to Winnipeg was supported by the School District of Mystery Lake, while the students picked up the registration fees.

The competition is an annual even held at the campuses of Red River College, and both R.D. Parker students received enthusiastic critique from trade specialists.