Forest Heights Collegiate Institute proudly hosted the 2026 Transportation Skills Competition, welcoming student competitors, educators, sponsors, and community partners from across the Waterloo Region. The event showcased the talents of secondary students who are passionate about transportation and automotive technology, giving them an opportunity to put their skills to the test.
The top performing students from the regional competition advance to the Ontario Skills Competition in Toronto, representing both their school and the WRDSB on the provincial stage. More than a competition, the event serves as a celebration of the skilled trades and the confidence that grows when students engage in meaningful, hands-on learning experiences.
For many students, technical education comes alive when theory meets practice. Through active, experiential learning, students not only retain knowledge more effectively, but also strengthen critical thinking, problem-solving, and adaptability. These are skills that are essential in any career path.
"This is what you would see in industry," said John Aguiar, Transportation Teacher, Eastwood Collegiate Institute. "We are testing how proficient they are. The theory drives the practical component."
He added that the competition gives students a rare and valuable platform to shine. "It gives them a chance to showcase what they can do. This is a great way to have students showcase their passion and be able to compete with other students."
Skilled trades play a fundamental role in Canada's economic growth and stability. Events like the Transportation Skills Competition help change perceptions and open doors for youth who may not have previously seen themselves in the trades.
A career in the skilled trades can offer high earning potential, job security, and the unique advantage of earning while learning through apprenticeships.
For students, the competition is as much about personal growth as it is about technical skill. For many, it opens doors they hadn't previously considered, helping them discover new interests and build confidence in their abilities. Experiences like these often transform a general curiosity about automotive work into a clear sense of direction, with some students leaving the competition inspired to pursue a career in mechanics.
The competition also highlighted the growing demand for these careers and the strong, supportive community that helps students succeed. That sense of encouragement was felt throughout the event, creating a welcoming entry point into the trades, where peers, teachers, and mentors built an environment that encouraged students to learn and build their skills.
Thomas-Arthur, an FHCI student, was the winner of the competition, but he walked away with more than just the top prize. Impressed by the skills and knowledge Thomas-Arthur demonstrated during the competition, a local transmission shop offered him a job. He is now taking the skills he learned at school, and putting them to work in the real world.
The competition's impact goes beyond career pathways. Thanks to supportive partners who donate tools, students not only gain access to valuable resources but are also better equipped to explore opportunities in the skilled trades. More importantly, hands-on learning provides practical, transferable skills that extend beyond the classroom. Even if students do not pursue careers as mechanics, they develop knowledge that can support them in everyday situations.
Students, parents and families interested in learning more about careers in the skilled trades can explore pathways, apprenticeships, and resources through Skilled Trades Ontario.
Excellence in Skills Competitions Across the WRDSB
At the provincial level, WRDSB students continued to excel. On May 4, students from Oak Creek Public School competed in the 2026 Skills Ontario Competition in the Workplace Safety category. The competition challenged students to identify safety risks in both a mock workplace and live event settings. Their hard work paid off, earning them first place and gold medals.
Reflecting on the moment, one student shared that she was overwhelmed with excitement when their names were announced and the other expressed pride in representing both their school and the school board at the provincial level.
