A.L. Fortune Student Wins Gold At Skills Canada

Congratulations to Sy Korf, a Grade 11 student from A.L. Fortune Secondary, on winning gold at the National Skills Canada Autobody Competition held in Regina, Saskatchewan on May 29-30, 2025!

With his father, brothers, and teacher Jason Inkster cheering from the stands, Sy showcased exceptional skill and determination to take the top spot in the high school division of the competition.

Skills Canada is divided into two levels – post secondary/apprentice and high school. If the post secondary/apprentice gold medal winner is unable to attend the World competition in Shanghai, China in September 2026, Sy will be eligible to compete.

Reflecting on the experience, Sy shared, “Going into the competition I wasn’t too sure how I would do. I wasn’t sure if some other school might have a gnarly autobody shop, But by the end of the first day you could tell who was there to compete.”

By the end of the first day, it became clear that the top contenders were from Manitoba and Ontario. After the second day, Sy had claimed gold, with silver going to Manitoba and bronze to Ontario.

Jason Inkster commented that he was very proud of Sy, both as an ambassador of A.L. Fortune and for his obvious work to be ready for the national finals. “Hours and hours of preparation for a moment in the spotlight. Falcon Pride!” he said.

Inkster also described the National Skills Competition as “100% mind blowing,” noting the incredible talent displayed by high school students across more than 40 skilled trades.

Sy commented that when he started the competition he didn’t have time to be nervous or to make errors as there was lots to accomplish. “I was dialed in,” he added. Inkster, on the other hand, admitted to being a bundle of nerves. “I paced like a caged lion in anticipation for Sy’s event.”

The autobody competitors had six hours to fix a B pillar (the vertical structural support on a car, located between the front and rear doors), three hours to replace a door skin, one hour to do an aluminium welding challenge, one hour for a measurement challenge, and one hour to fix an aluminium dent.

Competitors were required to bring their own tools. While this allowed Sy to work with familiar equipment, it also meant carrying heavy power tool batteries in his backpack during the flight, which made it a little heavy and cumbersome.

During the competition, no communication with coaches or others was allowed. Some tasks were unfamiliar, but Sy adapted quickly. “Overall, I think I came prepared,” he said.

However, Inkster and Sy spent late night cramming sessions at the hotel conference room, along with Okanagan College instructor Andreas Roth and other Team BC paint and autobody competitors.

“The support of Vancouver Community College and Andreas Roth from Okanagan College to help Sy prepare was amazing,” adds Inkster.

Sy’s interest in autobody began around age 12, thanks to his neighbour Glenn. He later pursued it in high school and completed a dual credit course through Vancouver Community College. Encouraged by Inkster, he decided to enter the Skills Canada competition. Check out Inkster’s video about Sy’s journey through the regional, provincial and national Skills Canada competitions – https://youtu.be/a0lm3QLkEBs!

Sy extends his thanks to those who helped him earn the gold, including his dad, Kordel Korf, neighbour Glenn Boyce, teacher Jason Inkster, VCC instructors Robin Popow and Keith Mew, and instructor Andreas Roth from Okanagan College (Kelowna).

At this point in time, Sy isn’t sure if he will pursue autobody as a career. “I want to keep my options open.” However, he is definitely going to continue doing autobody work and possibly get his Red Seal certification.

The opening ceremonies, two days of competition, and closing ceremonies were all livestreamed. The recordings can be found here.