Vann 1W7 Takes Silver Medal at SkillsUSA Nationals

Congratulations go to Ronald Vann 1W7, construction technology-masonry, for taking a silver medal in the masonry competition at the SkillsUSA national competition.

Vann and six other students represented Williamson well at nationals in Louisville, KY, said John Curran 0W5, SkillsUSA advisor.

“The guys did very well even though Ronald was the only one who placed in the top ten. They all did their best and behaved the way we expect Williamson students to behave. Everyone who saw them in action was impressed with their skill. We can all be proud of the way they represented Williamson.”

The other competitors and their area of competition were: Automated Machine Technology – Enrique Figueroa 1W7, Erik Hoover 1W7, Chris Frank 1W7, all machine tool technology; Carpentry – Ian Steveline 1W7, construction technology-carpentry; CNC Technician – Ryan Martin 1W7, machine tool technology; and Plumbing – Tim Bozzelli 1W8, power plant technology.

In addition to Curran, also attending with the students were Jim Schell, power plant technology instructor, and Pete Zwolak 0W7, director of construction technology-masonry.

“Pete and Jim each did an awesome job working with the guys. It was Pete’s first year to attend nationals and he did an outstanding job. This was Jim’s last year to be with us as he is retiring from Williamson. He had a long run attending SkillsUSA competitions and we will miss his contributions in the future.”

Though Mike Neville 0W0, director of construction technology-carpentry, did not attend nationals, he did a great job working with his students prior to the competition, Curran said.

“Pete and Mike are taking over as the next generation of instructors who are preparing our young men to be SkillsUSA champions and they are both up to the task. They are a credit to their trades and their teaching ability is second to none.”

Curran said they missed having Carmen Martella, director of machine tool technology, who passed away June 2, with them. “Carmen was a good friend and was very good at motivating his students in their competitions. We really missed having him there for them this year.”