RDP Welding Journeyperson Ranks Among Best in the World

Sep 16, 2024
Ben Rainforth with Coach and RDP faculty, Lee Yasinski holding bronze medal and Canadian flag at WorldSkills competition

Ben Rainforth, a Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) welding journeyperson, can add WorldSkills bronze medalist to his resume.

Lacombe’s Rainforth demonstrated his world class welding knowledge and skills, ranking third among his peers at the 47th WorldSkills Competition in Lyon, France. Only Sanghyeok Lee (gold) from Korea and Zehong Hu (silver) from China placed ahead of Rainforth in welding at the prestigious event which took place from September 10 to 15.

“I want to congratulate Ben and Lee. To place third in the world is an incredible accomplishment and a testament to Ben's dedication,” says David Pye, Dean, School of Trades and Technology at RDP. “Along with numerous hours Ben trained for WorldSkills, his path to success was supported by his trainer Lee Yasinski, RDP faculty and staff, industry partners and members of our communities.”

Rainforth trained diligently for WorldSkills. Along with working as a journeyperson, Rainforth dedicated approximately 40 hours per week to prepare for the global competition.

Ben Rainforth in full welding gear at WorldSkills works on some metal as sparks fly


“We are extremely proud of Ben earning a bronze medal at WorldSkills,” says Stuart Cullum, President, Red Deer Polytechnic. “This not only reflects the dedication and hard work from Ben and his Skills Coach Lee, but also the world class skilled trades programming that we offer at Red Deer Polytechnic.”



Over the past few years, Rainforth has grown his impact as a welder provincially, nationally and globally. 
In 2023, he achieved gold medals at both the Skills Canada Alberta and Skills Canada National competitions, contributing to RDP’s legacy of excellence at these events. Since 2003, RDP apprentices have earned a total of 83 medals at Skills Canada Alberta and Skills Canada National competitions.

“It has been inspiring to watch Ben's development over the last four years,” adds Pye. “We are immensely proud of Ben. As the third largest provider of skilled trades education in Alberta, we are proud to offer dynamic opportunities that prepare apprentices for in-demand careers that contribute to the provincial economy.”

Ben Rainforth holds a Canadian flag while wearing his bronze medal from the WorldSkills Competition

 

In May 2024, Rainforth was announced as one of 12 young adults on an Advisory Council of Skilled Trades Youth Ambassadors by Rajan Sawhney, Alberta’s Minister of Advanced Education. In his role, Rainforth helps the Government of Alberta to promote skilled trades to youth and helps to grow the industry. He was nominated by the Polytechnic based on performance excellence during his apprenticeship.

Rainforth was one of two Canadians who earned a medal at WorldSkills. Anthony Minotti (Automobile Technology), from Blainville, Quebec, also achieved bronze.

Welding was one of 59 events featured at WorldSkills.

Learn more about RDP’s 17 skilled trades programs.
 

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Eden Marklund throws the hang loose symbol whie wearing welding gear and Ben Rainforth smiles holding award while wearing welding helmet
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