An Assiniboine College graduate is preparing to take her talents to the global stage as she represents Canada at the 48th WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai, China.
Brooke Heaman, a 2025 graduate of Assiniboine’s Digital Art & Design program, will compete in the 3D Game Art category during the international competition running Sept. 22 to 27. The event will bring together approximately 1,400 competitors from more than 70 countries and regions, showcasing excellence in skilled trades and technology-related disciplines.
Heaman earned her place on Team Canada after capturing a gold medal in 3D Digital Game Art at the 2025 Skills Canada National Competition in Regina.
Heaman said the past year of training has helped her significantly improve her skills and prepare for the challenge of competing against some of the world’s top digital artists.
Brooke Heaman (left) teams up with Derek Ford (right) to represent Assiniboine College in international 3D game art competition. Photo credit: Assiniboine College
Joining her in Shanghai will be Derek Ford, Assiniboine’s Creative CoLab Coordinator and Digital Art & Design instructor, who has coached Heaman throughout her competition journey. Heaman credits Ford’s mentorship, industry connections and technical guidance with helping lay the foundation for her success.
Ford described the opportunity to coach on the international stage as a career milestone, noting that Heaman is the only Canadian competitor in the 3D Game Art category and a strong example of the talent being developed at Assiniboine.
Assiniboine President Mark Frison said Heaman’s journey from student to national champion and Team Canada member reflects the impact of dedication, hard work and mentorship.
As she prepares for the competition, Heaman says she is looking forward not only to testing her skills, but also to meeting competitors from around the world and exploring future opportunities in the growing field of 3D digital art.
Source: Assiniboine College
