Career students from the Knox County Area Technology Center showcased their skills during the annual SkillsUSA competition.
The 2014-2015 regional SkillsUSA competition was held at Clay County ATC and Bell Co ATCs this year. The awards ceremony was held at the Bell Co High School gymnasium.
Knox ATC students demonstrated their technical knowledge and skills earning them top honors:
Bradley Abner, 1st Place, Welding
Chris Orefice, 1st Place, Residential Electricity
Jacob Mills, 2nd Place, Residential Electricity
Jeffery Smith, 3rd Place, Residential Electricity
Kevin Mills, 1st Place, Automotive
Jordan Elswick, 1st Place, Talent Competition
Leslie Smith, Jimmy Payne and Dakota Phipps, 3rd Place, Welding Fabrication Team
All first places winners at the regional level were given the opportunity to compete at the State SkillsUSA in Louisville, Ky, which took place from April 22-25.
At the state competition Chris Orefice finished in 3rd place in Residential Electricity and while Bradley Abner earned the spotlight as first place state champion in Welding. Kevin Mills also competed in the Automotive competition.
“I couldn’t be happier for these students and their teachers,” said Ralph Halcomb, principal at Knox County ATC.
“I know they have worked very hard in preparing for this competition and in turn they have learned valuable skills that will help them for years to come.”
Skills USA is a career and technical student organization for students enrolled in vocational and technical career pathways. Students interested in pursuing a career path in the mentioned fields should see their high school guidance counselor.