Adam Sampson describes himself as a jack of all trades, although his true passion lies in heavy duty truck and transport repair.
The 18-year-old is a pre-apprentice and a Skills Canada-Nova Scotia National gold medalist.
Mr. Sampson was one of 46 young competitors recognized at the Skills Excellence Awards today, Dec. 6, in Dartmouth.
The Skills Excellence Awards is an annual event celebrating the success of Skills Canada–Nova Scotia, its alumni, volunteers, partners and competitors.
“Skills Canada-Nova Scotia is important because it opens doors for youth to learn about careers in skilled trades,” said Mr. Sampson.
He is determined to eventually compete at the post-secondary level, testing his skills against Canada’s top students and apprentices in the field he aspires to pursue. His goal after he finishes his apprenticeship is to open his own mechanic shop and run a small scale beef farm in Nova Scotia.
“The skills competitions have helped to prepare me for the future and reaffirm what it is that I want to do in life.”
Mr. Sampson joined Team Nova Scotia at the Skills Canada-Nova Scotia National Championship earlier this year where he helped them earn a record number of gold medals.
Team Nova Scotia demonstrated its skills in areas such as aircraft maintenance, baking, cabinetmaking, cooking and IT software solutions. Team Nova Scotia brought home 20 medals in 17 categories, including six gold medals, seven silver medals, and seven bronze medals.
“The outstanding performance shown by these youth is a clear example of the tremendous amount of skill and talent we have in this province,” said Kelly Regan, Minister of Labour and Advanced Education. “Programs like those offered by Skills Canada–Nova Scotia will help ensure Nova Scotia’s future workforce is positioned to meet the growing demand for skilled workers.”
Volunteer of the Year was presented to Sean Kettley, a member of the culinary faculty at NSCC Akerley Campus, for his dedication and ability to give the skills competitors the confidence they need to succeed.
“Our skills competitions and programs help youth discover their passions while building the skills and confidence they need to launch into successful careers,” said Courtney Gouthro, executive director of Skills Canada-Nova Scotia. “But their success in achieving excellence wouldn’t be possible without the support of mentors and coaches like Sean.”
Skills Canada-Nova Scotia also conducts provincewide school presentations and co-ordinates hands-on learning opportunities through youth projects.
Source: Release