Jacob McClelland

Biography
I’ve always been drawn to the process of bringing order and form to raw materials. As an apprentice machinist, that passion has only deepened. I take a raw block of metal and create a precise set of instructions for the machine to follow. It cuts away material until what remains is a finished part. It’s a blend of creativity, discipline, and craftsmanship that I love! Eventually, I aim to open my own shop.

During my first year at SAIT, my instructors urged me to enter Skills competitions. Following the Skills Canada National Competition 2025, in Regina, I was ecstatic when I heard that I will be competing at the 48th WorldSkills Competition 2026, in Shanghai! Now I’m motivated to push my skills to their limits as I prepare for WorldSkills Shanghai 2026. My biggest challenge at the competition will be managing my nerves. But the rest of me is buzzing with anticipation. I can’t wait to take on this challenge!

Interesting fact
I like to carve small things out of wood, like swords, tools and figures of characters from video games. It’s a fun way to stay creative.

Skills for Success
Problem Solving has been instrumental in my journey as a machinist. In machining, you’re often handed a raw block or cylinder of material and a blueprint alongside a 3D model of the final part. You must figure out how to turn that stock into the finished product. That kind of critical thinking is what makes machining challenging and incredibly rewarding.