Advanced Education Minister Rajan Sawhney (left) celebrates Walter Loedeman (right) of Lethbridge Polytechnic competing at the 47th WorldSkills competition. (Photo: Government of Alberta)

By David Opinko

Southern Albertans honoured for competing at WorldSkills competition

Jan 21, 2025 | 8:49 AM

A few locals are being celebrated for showcasing their immense capabilities on a global stage.

The Government of Alberta held a reception this past weekend for the six Albertans who competed in the 47th WorldSkills competition, held in Lyon, France in September 2024.

Four attend schools in southern Alberta:

• Brooke Potiuk
  • 3D Digital Game Art
  • Attends Brooks Composite High School
• Walter Loedeman
  • Heavy Vehicle Technology
  • Attends Lethbridge Polytechnic
• Noah Harding
  • Plumbing
  • Attends SAIT
• Tyler Cherkowski
  • Refrigeration & Air Conditioning
  • Attends SAIT

Judy Lan from NAIT (baking) and Ben Rainforth from Red Deer Polytechnic (welding) also took part in the competition. Rainforth won a bronze medal.

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Advanced Education Minister Rajan Sawhney says it was an honour to watch the six young Albertans compete.

“I was fortunate to be able to attend this year’s WorldSkills competition in France, and the talent and dedication exhibited by Team Canada’s Albertan team members was incredible,” says Sawhney. “I want to congratulate them on this achievement, and I know that their success will help inspire many more young Albertans to pursue careers and training in the skilled trades!”

The province says registrations for Alberta’s 47 apprenticeship programs have been rising sharply over the last two years.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now