PENDER COUNTY, NC - Topsail High School played host to the inaugural SHED competition with Connect for Success in the Southeast Region, spanning from April 9th to 11th, 2024. Local contractors, mentors, and sponsors converged to guide five teams of students. Jacksonville High from Onslow County and Topsail High contributed two teams, while West Brunswick High from Brunswick County fielded one team.
Day one commenced with each team's shed as nothing more than a pile of lumber. Despite the chilly weather, the day concluded with five sheds standing proudly on the field, boasting floors and walls. As day two dawned, the sun illuminated a scene of determination. Despite fatigue, students persevered, even extending their efforts by an extra hour in anticipation of inclement weather on Thursday.
When Thursday brought rain, the building inspectors pivoted, enabling contractors and teachers to lend a hand in completing the sheds. Scores from the first two days determined the winning teams. With the competitive aspect concluded, students from all schools joined forces, epitomizing teamwork as they collaborated to install roofs.
The final touches on the five sheds will be completed by the Topsail High Carpentry Classes over the coming week. Mr. English and Mr. Munroe, Topsail High's dedicated carpentry teachers, devoted countless hours before and after school, as well as on Saturdays, to train the students for the competition. These students underwent rigorous training, acquiring skills such as OSHA 10 certification and workplace safety practices.
Their hard work bore fruit as Mr. English's team, comprised of Olivia Anderson, Leighton Danko, Danzi Goesswien, Braxton Schlosser, Luke Moran, and Gabe Schwery, clinched first place. Meanwhile, Mr. Munroe's team, including Anthony Drescher, Noah Farah, Vincent Selph, Wesley Fitch, Will Lombardo, and Kaiden Carr, secured second place. Through this experience, students not only networked with local contractors but also gained insights into the importance of following plans, prioritizing safety, and navigating building inspections.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Topsail High Administration and staff for their unwavering support, which made this exceptional event possible for our students.