Cobb Reporter

Several students from the Construction Industry Training Academy (CITA) showcased their skills at the recent SkillsUSA AGC Challenge held at the Cobb Civic Center. The event was one of eight regional competitions across the state, with top finishers advancing to a state competition in the spring.

"Quality of life starts with good construction," said an event organizer, addressing attendees including students, teachers, judges, and industry professionals. "The trades are in high demand, and they are an exceptional path to a high-paying and rewarding career."

In the HVAC category, CITA students achieved notable success. Larry Reyes secured first place, followed by Octavio Cisneros in second place and Williams Meza in third. John Martin, HVAC instructor at CITA, expressed pride in his students' achievements: "All 3 of the HVAC technicians worked extremely hard to do well at the AGC Challenge. They amaze me with their dedication and willingness to help each other succeed, even when they are competing against each other. I’m extremely proud of all of them!"

Larry Reyes will proceed to compete at the Skills USA State Conference for HVACR. Octavio Cisneros will participate in Job Skills A by presenting an HVAC trainer he built from scratch at Region 3. Meanwhile, Williams Meza is seeking further competition opportunities related to his HVAC training.

Additionally, Cooper Sunday and Miles Hosterman advanced to the state level in masonry due to their performance at the Challenge. Gustavo Solares will also advance in Electrical.

Calvin Gray, a CITA instructor and SkillsUSA Advisor commented on student development: "Seeing the growth and development of each student from the Fundamental Class to the advanced classes is extremely rewarding. The Metro Atlanta Skills Challenge is a terrific opportunity for students to display their technical skills in front of the Construction Industry."

Beyond construction trades competitions, CITA's partnership with Cobb WellStar Surgical Technology offers unique learning experiences for its students. Dr. Tiffany Barney, CITA Director explained: "Our Surgical Technology pathway students have been able to shadow Wellstar surgeons in the operating room." This initiative allows students practical exposure complementing classroom concepts.

Sheri Ann Drake, CITA Healthcare Instructor highlighted this collaboration's benefits: "This partnership has provided a unique opportunity to observe surgeries... The students have even seen the DaVinci surgical robot." She added that both students and healthcare professionals find this experience rewarding as it prepares future healthcare workers.