Skill: Pâtisserie and Confectionery
School: Vancouver Community College
Employer: Chez Christophe Chocolaterie Patisserie
Hometown: Vancouver, BC
1. Could you please share a bit about yourself in terms of your educational and career background?
I attended Eric Hamber Secondary & started by taking Home Economics & Foods classes & clubs. While in grade 12, I then took the ACE-IT program (now called Youth Train in Trades) for Baking. This dual-credit program gave me a head start in my career in pastry. My first job was at Beard Papa’s Sweet Café. I’ve also dipped my toes in catering & a restaurant setting. I currently work at Chez Christophe Chocolates & Pastries.
2. What is your history with Skills Canada BC? Did you compete in the Regionals, Provincials, Nationals, WorldSkills?
I’ve competed in 1 Regional, 4 Provincial, 2 National, and 1 WorldSkills Competitions.
3. What would you say has been your biggest personal or professional success?
There isn’t a specific moment that I would consider as my biggest success, but rather the fact that I continued to compete in Skills Canada competitions no matter how many times I had been discouraged.
4. What motivated you to pursue your chosen trade or technology path?
I’ve always loved baking so a career in this trade was very clear and natural.
5. Can you tell us something about your trade that most people don’t know, or that you wish they knew?
Macaroons = coconut cookies; macarons = nut/meringue cookie sandwich!
6. What is your vision for success in the future in your career?
Sometime in the future, I would like to work abroad as well as participate in more competitions throughout my career.
7. What advice would you give to students who are thinking of pursuing a skilled trade or technology opportunity?
If you are unsure of which skilled trade or technology you want to pursue exactly, you should definitely keep your options open and always stay curious! Be willing to try different things in order to find your career path.