Hundreds of high school construction students from across Northwest Georgia are set to demonstrate their mastery of essential trades at the annual Northwest Georgia Skills Challenge, held at the Rome River Center on Tuesday, Nov. 4.

The event, which kicks off at 8:00 a.m. (301 Tribune Street), is a collaborative effort between the Associated General Contractors of Georgia (AGC Georgia), Duffey Southeast, Inc., and RaLin. It brings together over 200 competitors and 100 observers from construction-related programs in 14 local counties, including Chattooga, Floyd, and Bartow.

The Skills Challenge is designed to inspire future industry professionals and test real-world trade competencies. It is one of eight regional Challenges hosted throughout the state, collectively involving over 2,000 students from more than 100 schools.

Competitors in Rome will vie for top honors across a wide range of disciplines, including:

  • Blueprint Reading
  • Cabinetmaking
  • Carpentry
  • Electrical
  • Masonry
  • Metal Studs/Drywall
  • Plumbing
  • TeamWorks
  • Welding
  • Welding Fabrication

Dan Baker, CEO of co-host Duffey Southeast, Inc., emphasized the shared purpose behind the collaboration. “We’re proud to partner with AGC Georgia, RaLin and local industry to host. All our organizations have the shared goal of building our future workforce and inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in construction,” Baker said.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Tradesmen

The event serves as more than just a competition. While 200 students are competing, more than 100 additional students will observe the activities in preparation for future competitions. All participants will benefit from direct interaction with construction industry professionals who will host interactive activities designed to familiarize students with specific trades.

Zach Fields, Executive Vice President of AGC Georgia, highlighted the dedication of the educators nurturing these young talents.

“High school instructors in construction-related programs are on the front lines of promoting careers in our industry,” Fields said. “They work tirelessly to equip their students with real-world skills and prepare them for the ‘game day’ experience of Skills Challenges. It’s truly inspiring to see these young men and women demonstrate their trade talents in such a dynamic setting.”

Students from construction programs in the following counties are participating in the Northwest Georgia Skills Challenge: Bartow, Carroll, Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, Floyd, Gilmer, Gordon, Haralson, Murray, Pickens, Polk, Walker, and Whitfield.

Pathway to State Competition

The Northwest Georgia Skills Challenge also serves as a critical qualifier for aspiring trade professionals.

Students who are members of SkillsUSA Georgia and compete in Cabinetmaking, Carpentry, Electrical, Masonry, Plumbing, TeamWorks, Welding, and Welding Fabrication at this event are eligible to earn a bid to the prestigious SkillsUSA Georgia State Leadership and Skills Competition (SLSC), scheduled for February 2026.

For more information about the Skills Challenges and AGC Georgia’s workforce initiatives, please visit www.agcga.org/nwskills.