Albert Ross, a recent graduate of Clear Fork High School and the Knox County Career Center's Precision Machining program, achieved second place in CNC Turning at the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference. The event took place from June 23-27 in Atlanta, Georgia. Ross earned his spot at the national competition by winning the CNC Turning event at the state level.
Reflecting on his experience, Ross said, "Simply put, I’m not done. Competing at SkillsUSA Nationals was one of the greatest technical challenges I’ve faced. It pushed me to study harder and think in ways I hadn’t before. Now that it’s over, I want more of that feeling. I’m not exactly sure what my next step is, but I’m proud of how far I’ve come."
Joe LaFevre, Ross's instructor in Precision Machining at KCCC, expressed pride in Ross's accomplishment. "The SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference is an absolute honor to attend," said LaFevre. "Having a student place 2nd in our nation is humbling and emotional." He added that seeing a student succeed at such a high level feels like a confirmation of hard work from both students and instructors.
Superintendent Kathy Greenich also congratulated Ross and LaFevre on their success. "We want to congratulate Albert and Mr. LaFevre! How exciting to win first place at state and then get second in the nation!" she shared.
