Gadsden State Community College technical students representing the Ayers, East Broad, and Valley Street campuses recently competed at the 50^th Annual National Leadership and Skills Conference held in Kansas City. Two Gadsden State students placed in the top 10 at the national competition. Donny Dunn of Weaver placed 5^th in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration while Drake Weaver of Crossville placed 8^th in Collision Repair.

In addition the team of Jacob Helton of Albertville, Nick Keener of Hokes Bluff and Cody Taylor of Gadsden placed 11^th in Automated Manufacturing Technology. Matt McNew of Ohatchee placed 17^th in Auto Refinishing and Josh Clark of Oxford placed 17^th in Electrical Construction Wiring.

Instructors for these students include:  Tim Hardy (HVACR), Joe Mashburn  (Collision Repair and Automotive Refinishing), David Smith (CNC Turning/Automotive Manufacturing Technology), and Tony Thrower (Industrial Motor Controls and Residential/Construction Wiring).

“We are extremely proud of all our students who attend this national competition.  Each year we have several students place in the top 10, which speaks to the level of dedication and commitment from these students as well as the instructors who are helping them to master skills that will lead to a successful career,” said Tim Green, dean of technical education and workforce development at Gadsden State.