A student from Salisbury Composite High in Sherwood Park has secured a gold medal in Fashion Technology at the 2026 Provincial Skills Canada Competition for the second consecutive year.
Grade 11 student Kayla Klita earned the top spot during the two-day event held May 6-7, 2026, at the Edmonton EXPO Centre. The competition challenged students to demonstrate their abilities in apparel design and construction, requiring them to complete tasks such as pattern drafting, fabric cutting, and sewing within a strict timeframe based on detailed briefs.
Klita, who also won gold at the provincial level in 2025 and later earned a bronze medal at the national competition in Regina, said the experience of winning again was rewarding despite the added pressure of high expectations. She credited her ongoing success to the guidance of her junior high fashion teacher, who continues to coach her during personal time. She hopes to eventually pursue a career in costume design.
The competition is part of a larger effort by Elk Island Public Schools to highlight student talent in trades and technology. “The Board is so impressed with the level of dedication and skill students bring to their work every year,” said Colleen Holowaychuk, Board Chair of the school division. “The Skills competitions have been a great platform for students to show off the impressive talents they possess on a provincial and national stage.”
Following her provincial win, Klita will now represent Team Alberta at the 2026 Skills Canada National Competition. The event is set to take place from May 27-30, 2026, at the Enercare Centre in Toronto.
Other students from the school division also participated in the provincial event, including Hadley Beavan, Zoe Duncan, Nesia Fernandez, and Allyson Huculak, who competed in baking and culinary arts categories.
