BCIT students win at 2026 Skills Canada BC Competition

Congratulations to all BCIT students who participated and won in the 2026 Skills Canada British Columbia (SCBC) Competition. BCIT students competed against peers from post-secondary institutes across the province and proudly secured a total of 26 medals across 13 categories.

The annual SCBC competition provides an opportunity for students studying a skilled trade or technology in BC to put their skills to the test against their peers. This year’s competition welcomed more than 500 competitors across 50 trades and technology areas. Gold medalists will advance onto the 2026 National Skills Canada Competition in Toronto from May 28 to 29.

BCIT provides hands-on and industry-focused training

BCIT is one of the largest providers of trades, business, and media training in Western Canada.

The achievements of BCIT students at this year’s Skills Canada BC competition highlight the value of hands-on, industry-focused training and its strong relevance to the workforce. BCIT students learn through practical experience and in spaces that integrate real-world settings, such as trades shops.

“Competing at Skills BC 2026 was an incredible experience that truly tested what we’ve learned in the CISA program,” said Masaru Thomas Suzuki, BCIT Computer Information Systems (CISA) student who received gold in the IT Network Systems Administration (PS) category. “I’m proud to represent BCIT and to see our program recognized for producing technical talent. It’s a proud moment for all of us.”

Melody Watkins is a BCIT Level Two Electrical apprentice who won gold in the Electrical Wiring category. She shared, “My time at BCIT has meant so much to me. I’ve learned from amazing instructors and classmates from BCIT Electrical who believed in me and helped me see what I was capable of.” Melody adds, “Winning gold at Skills BC felt like a shared achievement, and I’m so grateful for the training and support that helped get me here.”

BCIT instructors are experienced industry professionals with extensive, real-world expertise. They bring this experience into the classroom, helping students hone their skills and prepare to compete at a medal-winning level.

Edward Fajaro, Program Head of the New Media Design and Web Development program, said, “Competing at this level demands not only technical excellence, but also creativity, resilience, and professionalism. This recognition highlights the calibre of our students and reinforces the value of hands-on, industry-aligned education.”

He adds, “Bethia’s silver medal at Skills BC is an exceptional accomplishment that reflects both her individual talent and the strength of applied learning within the New Media Design and Web Development program.”

Congratulations to all students who competed in at Skills Canada BC!