RDP Celebrates Apprentices’ Achievements at Building on Excellence Event

Oct 10, 2024
Matthew Fenton stands smiling with his hands in his pockets next to a banner. On the right, Ben Rainforth stands smiling with his hands crossed beside another banner

(l to r) Matthew Fenton and Ben Rainforth at the Building on Excellence Event

At its fifth annual Building on Excellence event, Red Deer Polytechnic celebrated a talented group of apprentices who showcased exceptional knowledge and skills in various Skills competitions over the past year. 

In 2024, Red Deer Polytechnic apprentices earned one gold, one silver and two bronze medals at the Skills Canada Alberta competition. After winning RDP’s fifth straight gold medal at last year’s Skills Canada National competition, Ben Rainforth (Welding) was given the opportunity to compete at the 47th WorldSkills Competition in Lyon, France this year. With the help of Lee Yasinski, Welding Instructor and Skills Coach, Rainforth came home with a bronze medal which is a first for an RDP apprentice. 

“We were proud to gather as a Polytechnic community with industry partners, alumni and supporters to celebrate the remarkable achievements of RDP apprentices at Skills competitions,” says David Pye, Dean, School of Trades and Technology.” The continued success of our apprentices highlights the expertise and commitment of RDP’s instructors, as well as industry-relevant learning opportunities offered at our institution, which are further strengthened by the support of employers.” 

Red Deer Polytechnic apprentices consistently rank among the top post-secondary achievers in Alberta and across Canada. Since 2003, the Polytechnic’s apprentices have impressively earned a total of 84 medals at Skills Canada Alberta and Skills Canada National competitions.  

“Through RDP’s partnerships with employers and industry from across the region, along with Skills Alberta and Skills Canada, apprentices receive world class education, training and opportunities in their skilled trade,” says Lindsay Engel, Vice President, Academic and Student Experience. “As a polytechnic, we are even better equipped to meet the needs of learners, communities and industry while contributing to the economic and social priorities of Alberta.” 

The next Post-Secondary Skills Canada Alberta competition will be held at the Edmonton EXPO Centre on May 7 and 8, 2025. 

Here is a summary of the achievements of Red Deer Polytechnic apprentices at Skills competitions in 2024: 

Skills Canada Alberta 

  • Gold medal – Jesse Bennett, Sprinkler Systems Installations 

  • Silver medal – Ethan Swain, Sprinkler Systems Installations 

  • Bronze medal – Jared Quast, Sprinkler Systems Installations 

  • Bronze medal – Matthew Fenton, Welding 

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