Carroll County Area Tech Center

Carroll County Area Technology Center welding students came home today with honors and scholarship money, even though weather and transportation almost sidelined the group in the final rounds of competition.
The students participated in a torch cutting competition organized in memory of a Grant County High School student who pursued his welding career through Tulsa Welding School. He was tragically killed in an auto-related accident and this competition was started in his memory.
CCHS Senior Blake Jones placed third out of 65 welders in the competition. He received a $250 scholarship and a new welding helmet. CCHS seniors Lucas Shepherd and Colten Human each received a $250 scholarship as did Trimble County High School Senior Keenan Sanders.
A bit of winter weather threatened to derail the students’ ability to complete the competition, but quick and collaborative action between Carroll and Gallatin counties saved the day.
“It was shaping up to have six of our kids in the top 10 and I’m like, ‘oh no we have to leave,’” Welding Instructor Justin Tingle said. “I’m glad you guys were on the same page and said to not let them quit.”
Tingle notified ATC Principal Kirk Brooks and ATC Student Advisor Chad Rose that several students were in the final rounds, but everything was running late and they were at risk of having to forfeit.
Brooks immediately called the administrations in both counties to arrange alternative transportation for the students. “I was able to call both superintendents and they said absolutely” we will work it out. Within minutes, a van was waiting at the ATC for Brooks and another vehicle was sent from Gallatin County to pick up their student. He praised both counties for their willingness to work together and act so quickly.
“Our kids performed really well. The camaraderie of it was really cool - even if they didn’t win,” Tingle said.
Pictured at the ATC with their new neck sleeves and flag are (from left): Kennan Sanders, Justin Tingle, Blake Jones (with new helmet for placing third overall), Lucas Shepherd, Colten Human, Kirk Brooks and Chad Rose. Carroll Co. ATC Casey Jaynes