Lethbridge College has announced Cody Gray, 34, from Fort Macleod, as the winner of its Extreme Career Makeover 2. Gray receives two years of tuition and books at Lethbridge College, as well as accommodations in residence for both years.
A hard-working father, husband and community volunteer, Gray has spent nearly 16 years in the same profession, but he wanted to expand his education and train for a new career. He intends to apply for the Engineer Design and Drafting Technology program.
“I wanted to have a better life, I wanted to know more things,” says Gray. “I love learning things. I’m always sketching things, drawing things out, I love designing things. I think with this knowledge, I can take my small talent and use it for something beneficial. Maybe make a career out of it.”
Gray was one of six finalists in the contest that drew more than 360 applicants. The top six shared their stories via video, while friends, family and the public voted for their favourites. A panel of Lethbridge College judges then selected the winner from the top two vote-getters.
All of the top six contestants were on campus today to take part in the dramatic announcement. The event was captured and streamed live for family and friends of the contestants and all voters worldwide to see.
Jaimie Griffiths, 40, from Camrose, Alta. was named runner-up in the contest and received two years of tuition at Lethbridge College. The other members of the final six – Chris Carleton of Lethbridge, Rianna Randall of Osler, Sask., Stephanie Savage of Lethbridge, and Mandy Tobler of Fort Macleod – were given $1,000 student awards.
One million Canadians heard or read about the Extreme Career Makeover 2 contest online and in the community, resulting in over a quarter of a million engagements online and nearly 400,000 views of the contestant’s videos. Voters cast more than 14,400 votes over 12 days, helping to decide the winner of Extreme Career Makeover 2.