More than 275 high school students from 26 counties across Southeast Georgia converged at the Bulloch County Agricultural Complex on November 12, 2025, for the annual Southeast Georgia Skills Challenge. This hands-on event, hosted by the Associated General Contractors of Georgia, showcased emerging talent in construction trades while connecting young people with industry leaders to address the growing need for skilled workers.
Event Draws Record Crowd
Students arrived early, eager to demonstrate their abilities in real-world scenarios. The challenge kicked off at 8 a.m. with check-ins and a welcome session, building excitement as participants prepared for intense competitions.
Industry partners like local construction firms provided judges who scored based on precision, safety, and efficiency. Over 150 students competed directly, while another 125 observed, gaining insights into careers that power Georgia’s economy.
This year’s turnout marked a significant increase from previous events, reflecting heightened interest in trade skills amid a national push for vocational training. Organizers noted that similar challenges in other states have helped fill job gaps in construction, where demand outpaces supply.
Key Competitions Highlight Talent
Competitors tackled tasks that mirrored actual job sites, testing both individual and team skills. Categories ranged from basic to advanced, ensuring a broad display of abilities.
Events included blueprint reading, where students interpreted complex plans under time limits, and welding fabrication, which required creating functional metal structures. These contests not only built confidence but also prepared participants for certifications that lead to immediate employment.
One standout was the TeamWorks challenge, involving four-person teams constructing installations from scratch. Such activities emphasize collaboration, a vital skill in modern construction projects.
Top Winners and Standout Performances
Statesboro High School dominated several categories, securing first place in TeamWorks and earning spots for the state conference. Their victory highlights the school’s strong program in architecture and construction.
Southeast Bulloch High School also shone, with student Lucas Hankinson taking first in Heavy Equipment Operation. This win positions him as a qualifier for further competitions.
Camden County High School claimed the overall Alliance Cup, awarded for the best cumulative performance across all events. This achievement underscores the region’s diverse talent pool.
Here are some of the key winners in major categories:
- TeamWorks: Statesboro High School (1st place, state qualifier)
- Heavy Equipment Operation: Lucas Hankinson, Southeast Bulloch High School (1st place)
- Welding Fabrication: Top performers from various schools advanced as qualifiers
- Cabinetmaking: Regional leaders earned state berths
| Category | First Place Winner | School | State Qualifier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blueprint Reading | Individual from Camden County | Camden County High School | No |
| Carpentry | Team from Statesboro | Statesboro High School | Yes |
| Electrical | Southeast Bulloch student | Southeast Bulloch High School | No |
| Masonry | Camden County representative | Camden County High School | Yes |
| Plumbing | Various county winners | Mixed schools | No |
| Roofing | Local high school team | Statesboro High School | Yes |
These results build on past successes, like Statesboro High’s 2023 overall win, showing consistent growth in regional programs.
Boosting Workforce and Community Ties
The challenge serves as a bridge between education and industry, especially important in Georgia where construction jobs are projected to grow by 10 percent through 2030. Participants interacted with professionals, learning about apprenticeships and entry-level positions.
Local leaders emphasized the event’s role in economic development. With Georgia’s infrastructure investments rising, skilled trades offer stable careers without college debt.
Observers noted how the challenge inspires underrepresented groups, including more female students entering fields like electrical and plumbing. This inclusivity aligns with broader efforts to diversify the workforce.
Looking Ahead to State and Beyond
Qualifiers now set their sights on the SkillsUSA Georgia State Leadership and Skills Conference in February 2026 at the Georgia World Congress Center. Success there could lead to national competitions, opening doors to scholarships and jobs.
The event’s growth suggests even larger turnouts in future years, potentially expanding to include more tech-integrated trades like sustainable building.
Readers, what do you think about the rising interest in trade skills? Share your thoughts in the comments and pass this article along to inspire others.
