James Bartel - 17

Biography  

I have been fascinated with cars since I was a kid. And being introduced to this trade in high school, I decided to pursue a career in autobody repair. One of the things I find fascinating is watching the transformation from something that most people would call junk into a fully functioning vehicle. I would love to work at a luxury auto repair shop, working with fancy cars, one day. 

I was invited to compete at the Skills Canada Manitoba provincial competition by my high school teacher, and I just kept going from there. When I found out that I was going to the 2024 WorldSkills Competition, in Lyon, it was very overwhelming at first. I think my biggest challenge there will probably be the fact that I will be one of the youngest competing against more experienced tradespeople. The best advice I’ve ever received is: Stay away from those people who try to disparage your ambitions. Small minds will always do that, but great minds will give you a feeling that you can become great too. 

Interesting fact  

I love all kinds of sports. 

Skills for Success  

Collaboration played a huge role in helping me during the competition. All the training I did with experienced tradespeople definitely went a long way for me and enabled me to succeed.