Millwright apprentices representing Georgia, Tennessee, Florida, Louisiana, Arkansas and Texas represented the SSMRC well at the recent UBC Southern District Apprenticeship Competition, held at the Houston Training Center. Zachary Richards from Local 1421 out of Arlington, TX won first place. Second place went to Kris Carpenter, Local 1554, in Chattanooga, TN, and Jesse Martin, Local 1000 from Tampa, FL took third. Additional Millwright apprentices participating were: David Baker, Jr. Local 1263, Kennesaw, GA;; Jaye Hebert Local 729, Baton Rouge, LA; and Steven Mitchell, Local 216 in Russellville, AR. R.L. Gates, Tommy Meeks and Danny Budnik served as judges for the contest, while Rick Halford, Ed Wright and Jamie Pernicerio assisted the contestants as proctors.

The Apprenticeship Competition tests the contestants’ skills via a written exam and a special project consisting of various measurements using precision tools. The hands-on project included layout, welding, drilling and tapping, installing bearings and shafts, shaft alignment, installing gears and sprockets for a chain drive and various other millwright duties. All apprentices received shirts, a gift certificate and a plaque for participation.

The awards banquet featured keynote speaker UBC Southern District Vice President Danny Maples. Representative Al Green of the 9th Congressional District and Representative Sheila Jackson Lee of the 18th Congressional District also spoke.