Camosun grad brings home silver medal from Canadian sheet metal competition

Sara Wilson, Camosun College Sheet Metal and Metal Fabrication grad and apprentice, came in second at the Canadian Sheet Metal Apprenticeship Competition in Windsor, Ontario. Sara was one of 11 apprentices, and the only woman, who competed in the event put on by the Canadian Council of Sheet Metal Workers and Roofers. Sara was selected to represent Vancouver Island by Local 276 of the Sheet Metal Workers International Association.

"I really enjoyed the opportunity to meet the other top union apprentices, who came from all over Canada," says Sara. "The competition was very exciting and I'm proud of how well I did."

Sara started with the Sheet Metal & Metal Fabrication Foundation program at Camosun, having never worked in the trades field. "I didn't even know sheet metal was a thing. But that first time, being given a sheet of metal to work on, was life-changing," says Sara. "It was like metal origami. It was so creative, you can build so much."

Her enthusiasm, passion and determination were quickly noticed by her instructors. "Sara was an exceptional student from the beginning to the end. She was the top student in all her classes," says Ken MacDonald, Sheet Metal program leader. "She has a focus and drive that is outstanding." On May 29, 2014 at Camosun College's Trades and Technology awards, Sara will receive the John Drysdale Memorial Award, given to the top all-round Trades student for achievement in course work, attitude and contribution to both the college and community.

Sara works at Seaspan Victoria Shipyards where she works mainly on frigates and submarines, building things such as duct work and furniture, as well as working around the shipyard doing architectural work. "I love working at the Shipyards," says Sara. "Every day is different and no two projects are the same."

Contact

Jonathan Ruhl
Marketing & Communications Specialist
Camosun College
250-370-4555
ruhlj@camosun.ca