Megan Coles
Skills Canada National Medalist
I was born/grew up in: Conception Bay South, Newfoundland, Canada
I now live in: Conception Bay South, Newfoundland, Canada
I completed my training/education at: Currently a student at Holy Spirit High School, Conception Bay South, NL
When I was a student I enjoyed:
Describe your career path to this career.
I began competing in Skills Canada competitions when I was in Grade 8. I competed in the category of Workplace Safety and have continued to do ever since. In eight grade I won the Intermediate Competition against junior high students. This then allowed me to advance to NL Provincial Competition. The Provincial Competition was much harder but I put in my best effort. To my surprise, I won another gold medal! I then became a member of Team NL and traveled to the Skills Canada National Competition in Toronto. It was a life changing experience and to this day it is still hard to put into words. Although I had fun, I did not medal. However, that did not stop me. Instead it encouraged me to do better. I spent countless hours practicing and learning. I also found a mentor who was an Occupational Health and Safety professional. She helped me feel confident and ready to represent my province at the National Level. I am proud to say that all of my hard work paid off. I won Gold at the National Competition in Workplace Safety two years later. I was named the best in the entire country. The following year I won Silver at the Skills Canada National Competition. This year I will be traveling to Edmonton in June to compete in my fourth and final Skills Canada National Competition in Workplace Safety.
When I was a student, I would have described myself as someone who:
What activities do you like to do outside of work?
I do a lot volunteer work in both by school and community. For example, I am a member of Student Council at my school and I volunteer at the local children's hospital. During my free time I like to bake and read. To relax I do yoga.
What advice or encouragement would you give others seeking a similar career?
I believe Skills Canada is a wonderful opportunity as it allows you to learn about skilled trades and technologies. I encourage any student who is interested in competing to give it a try! It is important to take advantage of opportunities like Skills Canada because they enable you to learn about different careers which will help you choose your own career path.