Middle Georgia Technical College

MGTC Students Compete at Skills USA State Contest

Dublin, GA - Five Middle Georgia Technical College students recently competed in the Georgia Skills USA competition in Dublin at Heart of Georgia Technical College. One MGTC student, Christopher Corley, placed in the top three of his competition.

"I joined the Skills USA club to participate in this competition," said Corley. "The experience was so much more than I expected. I am really glad that Middle Georgia Tech gave me this opportunity."

Corley is an Air Conditioning Technology student from Warner Robins. He placed third in the Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC/R) competition. In addition to showcasing his technical skills by troubleshooting heat pumps and gas furnaces, Corley also had to participate in a mock customer interview to explain the necessary repairs and give advice on how to best remedy the situation.

Corley is also the Reporter for the Skills USA club and will graduate from MGTC in June. Ken Spragins is his instructor.

Other students who participated and their competition area include Cosmetology student Shelia Kowalski of Warner Robins, Cosmetology; Aviation Maintenance student Brian Lewis of Warner Robins, Aviation Maintenance; Industrial Systems student Mark Zeuner of Warner Robins, Industrial Motor Controls; and Radiologic Technology student Brittany Greer of Abbeville, Extemporaneous Speaking.

After a long absence from the campus, the Skills USA club at MGTC is being revitalized. Club co-advisor Johnny McDonald, Air Conditioning Technology instructor, is proud of the showing at the state competition.

"We had a good showing this year and we are especially excited that Christopher placed," said McDonald. "I want to thank the instructors who helped prepare this year's competitors and hopefully next year every program on campus will be represented at the state competition."

Instructors assisting with this year's competition include Tal Loos and Shane Walden, Aviation Maintenance; and Jolie Martin and Linda Lewis, Cosmetology. In addition to McDonald, Antonio Shelly, Industrial Systems instructor, serves as a co-advisor for the Skills USA Club.

Skill USA is a student organization designed to help students develop and showcase skills learned in the classroom. This partnership of students, teachers and industry representatives, works together help students excel to ensure America has a skilled work force. Skills USA is a nationally recognized, nonprofit organization serving teachers and high school and college students who are preparing for careers in trade, technical and skilled service occupations, including health occupations.

To find out more about MGTC and the Skills USA program on campus, call Instructors Johnny McDonald or Antonio Shelley at 478.988.6800.

Christopher Corley of Warner Robins placed third in HVAC/R at the State Skills USA competition in Dublin.