KHS ICT students win awards
By KATHRYN MARTINEZ news1@kilgorenewsherald.com

Kilgore High School Industrial Cooperative Training students, pictured (standing left to right) are Don Hedrick, ITC instructor, Matthew McKinney, Kevin Wilson , David Mason, (kneeling left to right) Jesus Garcia, Chad Cooley and Derek Kennedy.

"Six went and six won," Don Hedrick, Kilgore High School Industrial Cooperative Training instructor, said of the young men he took to regional competition last weekend. "I am proud of each and every one of them."

Hedrick's class, formerly known as VICA (Vocational Industrial Clubs of America) brought home six state qualifiers. These young men will compete in Corpus Christi this spring.

The Skills USA Contest at Texas State Technical College in Waco, last weekend, was proof of the level of education and talent found in Hedrick's vocational classes.

Chad Cooley ranked first in advanced welding. His welding project was a blue-ribbon state qualifier and won best of show.

Matthew McKinney ranked as best of show runner up. His welding project was also a blueribbon state qualifier.

Jesus Garcia brought home second place in advanced welding, His project - a barbecue pit - was voted best of show.

David Mason represented KHS with another blue-ribbon state-qualifier welding project.

Derek Kennedy placed second in small engine repair.

The group was accompanied at competition by Billy Steele, welding advisor; Scott McKinney, supportive dad who offered his time, truck and trailer to haul the students' projects; and, Cody Wilson, another supportive parent.

"This is an exceptional group of young men," Hedrick said. "They all worked hard on their projects and their efforts paid off."

In addition to school responsibilities, Hedrick said all of the young men in his program hold down various trade jobs in community.

"These fellows go to school, work and pay bills," Hedrick said. "They are accomplished and productive citizens as well as award winners. I couldn't be more proud."