Franklin County Students Shine at Machining Competition Thanks to Strong Partnerships!

WINCHESTER, TN - The power of collaboration between education and industry was on full display at the 3rd Annual Machining Competition, sponsored by Schmiede, as Franklin County students brought home top honors in the Lathe Competition. Matthew Latham from Franklin County High School clinched First Place, while Trace Moorehead, a student from Huntland School, secured Third Place. Their impressive achievements demonstrate the benefits of strong partnerships in preparing students for future careers.

This annual competition, a showcase of precision and skill, wouldn't be possible without the invaluable support of industry leaders Schmiede, Advanced Machine, Nissan, and Beyond New Horizons. Their commitment to fostering the next generation of machinists is a testament to the importance of bridging the skills gap.

Matthew Latham's success story perfectly illustrates how Work-Based Learning, TCAT Dual Enrollment, and robust high school programs can seamlessly integrate to provide students with real-world experience and advanced technical skills. His First Place finish highlights the effectiveness of these collaborative pathways in equipping young individuals with the expertise demanded by today's manufacturing sector.

Trace Moorehead, a talented Huntland student also enrolled in the TCAT Dual Enrollment program, further solidified Franklin County's strong showing with his Third Place victory. His achievement underscores the widespread impact of these partnerships across the county's educational landscape.

Behind these student successes are the dedicated efforts of Mr. Joe Kelly, a TCAT instructor, and Mr. Jerry Paradise. Their tireless work in fostering collaboration between the educational institutions and local industry partners has been instrumental in providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in their future careers. Their commitment ensures that students gain not only theoretical understanding but also practical, hands-on experience that is highly valued by employers.

The outstanding performance of Franklin County students at the competition serves as a shining example of how strategic partnerships between schools, technical colleges, and industry can cultivate talent, close the skills gap, and ultimately contribute to the economic vitality of the region. The future of manufacturing in Franklin County looks bright thanks to these collaborative efforts and the dedication of its students and educators.