The International Training
Institute has named the 12 detailing category finalists who will compete March
5-9 at the International Sheet Metal Competition in Las Vegas.
For
only the second time in the contest’s history, journeymen will be allowed to
compete with apprentices for a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
The finalists are: are Dan Beyersdorf, Saginaw, Mich.; James
Brierley, Spanish Fork, Utah; David Dias, San Ramon, Calif.; Sean Edwards, Rock
City, Ill.; Jaymes Fleming, Woodinville, Wash.; Clyde Fujimoto, Honolulu;
Douglas Haase, Washougal, Wash.; Anthony Belluardo, Aurora, Ohio.; Joey
Hovarter, Moore, Okla.; Ryan Israel, Olathe, Mo.; Amelia Kelsay, Portland,
Ore.; and Josh Menz, Rochester, N.Y.
Edwards is the only apprentice to make the top 12, a fact
that he said was an honor.
“I definitely feel like I’m in the spotlight even more
knowing that I’m the only apprentice,” he said. “I look forward to seeing what
the rest of the competitors bring to the table as well as the experience I will
gain from the event.”
Kelsay is the only female who tried out in the detailing
category. She said she is looking forward to the contest. She is a part-time
instructor at the Sheet Metal Workers union’s training center in Portland and
looking for a full-time job.
“The benchmark certification has provided me the education
and knowledge to take the next step in my career goal of becoming a union
detailer,” she said. “I am going into this competition without any
expectations. Any success or jobs that may come from this would be icing on the
cake.”
The competition will be held in conjunction with Partners in
Progress, a biennial conference sponsored by the union and the Sheet Metal and
Air-Conditioning Contractors’ National Association.
