CLARKESVILLE - North Georgia Technical College went four-for-four at the recent National SkillsUSA Championships with Colby Moore, Brandon Tatum, Zack Moon, and Robert Kennell each achieving Second Place in their respective contests.
The SkillsUSA Championships, held in Kansas City, Mo., took place June 23-27, as part of the SkillsUSA 48th annual National Leadership and Skills Conference (NLSC), a showcase of career and technical education students. During the week, more than 5,600 career and technical education students - all state contest winners - competed hands-on in 94 different trade, technical and leadership fields.
"What an outstanding accomplishment for each of these young men," said NGTC President Dr. Gail Thaxton. "We are so proud that these outstanding students took advantage of the opportunity to compete in an event of this scale. We are prouder still that all four ranked so highly in a renowned competition. This is a testimony to the caliber of our faculty and programs we have here at North Georgia Tech."
Marine Service Technology contestant Brandon Tatum of Habersham County worked through a series of skill stations and completed a written test. The hands on test stations included many aspects of 2-stroke and 4-stoke outboard, stern drive and inboard troubleshooting and repair. Students had to prove proficiency in marine application electrical/ignition systems, fuel systems, cooling systems, lubrication systems, drive/transmission systems and boat and trailer rigging and repair. The test included the above listed topics including diagnostics, service and repair of marine accessory items. Contestants were judged on safe work practices, cleanliness, organizational skills, accuracy, speed and completion of assigned tasks, worksheets and paperwork.
Photography student Colby Moore of Baldwin demonstrated using digital SLR's, image editing software (Adobe Photoshop) and professional studio lighting. Students at the contest performed on-site photography, portrait studio lighting & posing, as well as process and print digital photos. Two 11x14 or 16x20 mounted & matted photographs were submitted in advance of the contest to be judged and displayed at the competition.
For Video Product Development, Zack Moon of Rabun County and Robert Kennell of Habersham County were NGTC's team. At the event, they were required to create a five-minute video in Kansas City with a theme of Hot Times Summer in the City. They were judged on their project planning, scripts, storyboards, camera techniques, editing, use of royalty-free music/sound/graphics, special effects, overall impressions, skill-related written test and interview. The on-site, hands-on portion of the competition required each team to create a project (video), which can be seen on www.facebook.com/ngtcnews.
Brandon, Colby, Zack, and Robert all received silver medallions for their accomplishments. They also received prizes such as tools of their trade and equipment resources. The SkillsUSA Championships is for high school and college-level students who are members of SkillsUSA.
The students were accompanied by Marine Engine Technology Instructor Morris Harrison and Photography Instructor Jeff Gulle.
"The sheer size of this event is overwhelming," said Gulle. "To see over 5000 students competing at once blows your mind; then to have students win
Saturday
July 12th, 2025
10:55AM
