George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
Competing against the country’s top provincial champions, the team demonstrated exceptional skill, preparation, and passion across their disciplines.
Competitors and categories:
Mechanical CAD
🥇 Gold: Jayesh Busgeeth
Coach: Jamie McIntyre
Sheet Metal Work
🥈 Silver medal: Lyndsey Jordan
Coach: Shayne Speck
Baking and Pastry Arts
🥈 Silver medal: Harmanjot Singh
Coaches: Markus Elegino, Jennifer Lakhan-D’Souza
Support: Thu Phuong Chloe Nguyen, Kailen Radia, Ayla Ward, Sabina Lee, Vincent Willyanto, Vanessa Dunne
Culinary Arts
Competitor: Téo Rapatout
Coaches: Trevor Ritchie, Andrew Evans, Julie Montgomery
Support: Luca Assad, Anne Sophie Martig, Nina Behrouzi, Vanessa Dunne
Spotlight on skilled trades excellence
SCNC is the country’s only national multi-trade and technology competition, bringing together more than 500 competitors in 40+ competitions, and thousands of student visitors exploring careers in the skilled trades. George Brown’s booth engaged prospective students eager to pursue hands-on, in-demand careers through interactive activities and provided them the chance to speak directly with our staff and faculty.
The booth also welcomed several special guests, including Ontario’s Minister of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, David Piccini, who stopped by to meet students and learn more about George Brown’s programs. HGTV personalities Mike Holmes Jr., a George Brown alumnus, and Sherry Holmes, whose presence helped spotlight the value of skilled trades and inspire the next generation of trades professionals.
With Canada facing growing demand for skilled professionals, events like Skills Canada highlight the critical role trades play in driving innovation, infrastructure, and economic growth. The energy and ambition on display underscored a strong future workforce ready to build and sustain the country.
“Watching our students earn gold and silver medals on the national stage was a moment of immense pride,” said Dr. Adel Esayed, Dean, Faculty of Applied Science, Construction and Engineering Technology. “They represented George Brown Polytechnic and Ontario with excellence, professionalism, and determination. Just as inspiring was seeing so many young people from across Canada pursuing skilled trades—reminding us how vital these careers are to our economy and future prosperity.”
A team effort
“Each competitor and their support network have put in the effort to ensure that we could demonstrate on the day,” said Tara Ferguson, Associate Dean of the Chef School. “Our work continues as we prepare and train for WorldSkills. Although one competition ends, we look forward to what is ahead of us.”
Behind every medal was a dedicated network of coaches, faculty, and peers whose mentorship and collaboration helped turn talent into achievement. As George Brown celebrates this national success, the focus now shifts to the global stage—proving that excellence in the trades is not just a moment, but an ongoing journey of growth, ambition, and opportunity.
