WESTLOCK — Two R.F. Staples School students recently qualified to move on to the provincial level at the 2024 Edmonton Regional Skills Canada (ERSC) competition for Automotive Technology on April 6.
Grade 12 student Charles Gordon placed second and Grade 10 student Adam Moscaluk finished fourth at the event, which was hosted at the NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology) campus.
R.F. Staples mechanics teacher Aaron Deas said Charles and Adam were entered alongside students from Spruce Grove, Stony Plain, Edmonton and St. Albert.
The competition consisted of six different timed stations “where competitors are required to make precise measurements, identify vehicle parts, diagnose electrical faults and make adjustments and repairs on various vehicle components,” he said.
“I am really proud of the boys putting together all of the knowledge and skills we have been working on in the shop. It’s one thing to put in all the hours training, but to perform under pressure the way our boys do is impressive.”
Deas noted this was Charles’ second year in a row both competing at Skills Alberta and advancing to provincials, where he placed well for his first year.
He added that the Grade 12 student has a ton of experience working on equipment and vehicles on the farm with his mother and father, as well as spending three semesters in Deas’ mechanics class over three years.
Deas said Adam was a first-timer at Skills Alberta, adding that while he may not be as experienced as Charles, Adam picks things up quickly and sets the bar high for himself.
“He may end up being the youngest student at the provincial level and is showing incredible potential as a young student,” Deas added.
Deas said the two R.F. Staples students are now focusing on training for the Provincial Skills Canada Competition, which will be held on May 8-9 “on a much bigger stage” at the Edmonton Expo Centre.
“The boys are excited to showcase their talents,” he said.
