not only work on skills but to also do other things in my life has been hard, too. TD: Why did you choose the collision repair path? What are the experiences or people that have influenced you? AW: My interest in cars came from my parents. I was pretty much born into cars as my parents still have a collector’s car to this day, which led me to having my own. Along with my family’s interests and hobbies, I was given the option to take vocations at my high school at Kildonan East Collegiate, where I took autobody and carpentry. After my first year, I had to choose a major, and it was a toss up between automotive and autobody. I chose autobody because it was more me,and I already did autobody at home with my dad. After that, it’s all pretty much history and I knew this is was I wanted to do for the rest of my life. TD: What are your objectives or plans for the future? AW: After WorldSkills, I’ll mainly be focused on getting my Red Seal. I’m a Level 2, and
Ashley’s interest in autobody came from her parents. “I was pretty much born into cars,” she said.
I should be graduating in 2019. I don’t have any goals for the long-term right now because I want to keep doors open and wait to see what’s offered to me. TD: Was there anyone who was vital to getting you to where you are today, through encouragement or inspiration?
AW: My local trainer, Dan Labossiere. I would have never gotten to where I am today if he hadn’t dragged me out of bed and driven me to that first competition. He was also my high school teacher for three years in autobody, and I’m very glad that he is in this part of my life now.