​Two students from Collège Sturgeon Heights Collegiate put their skills to the test at the Skills Canada National Competition in Toronto, Ontario, from May 28 to 29, 2026.

Huskies Kira Simpson (Workplace Safety) and Andrei Kargin (Electronics) were part of Team Manitoba—a group of 64 high school, college, and young apprentices who earned the right to represent Manitoba after placing first in their respective trade or technology field at the Skills Manitoba Competition earlier this year. One additional gold medal winner at the provincial level was not able to attend the Toronto event this year.

After two days and 12 hours of competition, Grade 10 student Andrei took home the silver medal in Electronics for all of Canada at the high school level.

“Andrei and Kira were great competitors and ambassadors for Manitoba, SJASD, and CSHC. What a great overall experience for these hardworking students," says Vocational Electrical Instructor Gary Yakimoski, who has accompanied students for many years to provincial and national competitions.

“I'd like to thank Gary Yakimoski for all his support, advocacy, and mentorship for students and for Skills," adds Collège Sturgeon Heights Collegiate Principal George Valentim.

When not competing, the two Huskies had the chance to tour Toronto with other competitors, enhancing their citizenship while visiting top Canadian destinations, including Ripley's Aquarium, the CN Tower, and the Art Gallery of Toronto.

Like the provincial event, students participated in over 40 skilled trade and technology competitions in Toronto. More than 550 high school and post-secondary students, as well as young apprentices from all regions of Canada took part.

Congratulations students!