Date Posted: July 2, 2024
Southern Crescent Technical College Horticulture students Ivan Arnold, Carter Payne, and Jennifer Vinkos were recently awarded a gold medal at the national SkillsUSA Competition held June 24-27, 2024 in Atlanta. Featuring the best of the best from across the nation, the National Competition gave students the opportunity to put their technical skills to the test in robust career competitions including leadership, health, trade and technical competitions.
The trio competed in the category Career Pathways: Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources for their presentation entitled “Horticulture: Bridging Local Communities” where they discussed their partnership and work with the University of Georgia Spalding County Extension Healthy Life Community Garden. Their extensive work, under the guidance of SCTC Horticulture Program Coordinator Dr. Bethany Harris, earned them top honors.
The National Competition allowed state gold medalists to compete head-to head against more than 6,000 competitors from across the United States in 115 skilled and leadership competitions. This event brings together more than 16,000 attendees, including
students, instructors, industry partners, government officials, administrators and more each year.
SCTC President Dr. Irvin Clark stated, “We are so very proud of these students for their efforts to win a gold medal at the national SkillsUSA competition. Their success is truly a testament to the great education and leadership opportunities that are provided here at Southern Crescent Technical College. I congratulate them on behalf of the entire campus community and am honored to be able to celebrate their successes with them.”
Horticulture student Sabrina Harris also competed in Job Skills Demonstration A where she presented on “Grafting of Ornamental and Fruit Trees”. Although she did not receive a medal, Sabrina did place in the top 10 in the nation and received a certificate indicating successful score earnings in her competition.
SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers, and industry representatives working together to ensure America has a skilled work force. They are a national nonprofit organization serving teachers and college students who are preparing for careers in trade, technical, and skilled service occupations, including health occupations.