Kayla Klita, a Grade 10 student at Salisbury Composite High, won the gold medal in the Fashion Technology category at the Skills Alberta provincials.

Sherwood Park, AB. — At the recent Skills Alberta provincials, two students from Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS) won the gold medal in their event categories. James Lowes, a Grade 9 student at Vegreville Composite High, won first place in Culinary Arts for junior high, while Kayla Klita, a Grade 10 student at Salisbury Composite High, took the gold for Fashion Technology.

With her provincial success, Kilta has earned a place on Team Alberta and will be competing at the Skills Canada National Competition in Regina on May 29 and 30. “This has been such an exhilarating experience,” says Klita. “I did not expect that I’d win gold, especially as a Grade 10 student, and the fact that I’ll be representing Alberta in just a few weeks at Nationals is very exciting.  I hope to pursue a career in costume design, where I’ll be able to continue sewing and creating garments!”

As the national competition is only open to high school students, Lowes will not attend but winning the gold medal is a promising start for the aspiring chef. “I had lots of fun, and it feels pretty good to win gold,” says Lowes. “I was so surprised when they said that I’d won first place. I definitely see myself using the skills I learned at this event in the future by cooking for my family and others. I’d love to compete again—the feeling was exhilarating.”

Other EIPS students also showcased excellence in their chosen skill area at the provincial competitions:

• Baking
  • Avery Stasuik, Grade 12, Salisbury Composite High—placed 12th overall.
• Culinary Arts—Senior
  • Allyson Huculak, Grade 10, Vegreville Composite High—placed 6th overall.
  • Andrew Kalvin, Grade 12, Bev Facey Community High—placed 19th overall.
  • Gavin Friedenberg, Grade 12, Salisbury Composite High—placed 18th overall.
• Workplace Safety
  • Aly Waldo, Grade 10, Strathcona Christian Academy Secondary—placed 7th overall.
  • Layne Lowes, Grade 12, Vegreville Composite High—placed 10th overall.

Competing at Skills Alberta would not be possible without the help of dedicated staff to train, coach and inspire students. Klita and her family would like to thank Diane Entrup, Karen Clair and Stacey Bennett at Salisbury Composite High, as well as Erin Malec and Kari Provencher at Sherwood Heights Junior High for their support in her journey with Skills competitions. “I couldn’t have done any of this without my parents, teachers, coaches and countless others who were so dedicated and supportive of me competing, and I’m very grateful to everyone,” adds Klita.

Lowes is thankful for his foods teacher Nancy Broatch at Vegreville Composite High. “I think the help from Ms. Broatch is the main reason why I won. She taught me how to cook everything perfectly and gave great advice.”

Skills Canada has the only national, multi-trade and technology competition for students and apprentices in the country. Each year, more than 550 competitors from all regions of Canada come to participate in more than 40 skilled trade and technology competitions. Skills Canada isn’t limited to competitions—it also offers a variety of programs and initiatives in career exploration and skills development year-round.

As success beyond high school remains a top priority for EIPS, Skills Alberta and Skills Canada serve as exceptional opportunities for students to explore skills, discover careers and plan for their futures. Congratulations to Klita, Lowes and all EIPS students who participated in a Skills competition this year!

Elk Island Public Schools is one of Alberta’s largest school divisions, serving approximately 17,950 students in 42 schools. We are proud to be an integral part of our communities, including Sherwood Park, Fort Saskatchewan, Vegreville, Strathcona and Lamont counties, and the western portion of the County of Minburn.

RELATED INFORMATION
Skills Alberta Competition Results
Skills Canada National Competition 2025
Skills Canada Programs and Initiatives

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For more information, media can contact:
Laura McNabb, Director, Communication Services, EIPS 780-417-8204 cell 780-405-4902