On Wednesday, September 24, Garrett High School students in the Career Development Program took part in a Below The Hook competition held on the Garrett campus.
The competition and evaluation took place between Garrett, students from Columbia City High School and students from Anthis Career Center in Fort Wayne, part of Fort Wayne Community Schools.
The students that took part in the competition for Garrett High School were Nolan Kramer (12), Alex Smith (12), Ty Bickley (11), Tana Steffes (11) and Henry Oyer (10).
Garrett CDP students sharpened their skills and prepared for crane operations by training on the Tenstar simulator, gaining hands-on experience in a safe, controlled environment before Wednesday's event.
“This event was more than a competition – it was a showcase of the skills, teamwork and safety practices that our students are mastering for their futures, regardless of their path," said Kelly Flotow, the Director of Curriculum and Career Development for GKB.
"As the first-ever high school crane rigging competition, watching our GHS students prepare and perform with skill and professionalism was a genuine point of Railroader Pride. We are grateful for this partnership with Train for the Crane and the doors that this has opened for our students."
The event utilized Train For The Crane, a company that delivers on-site crane operator training programs aimed at helping individuals obtain certifications that are often required in construction, manufacturing, and warehousing settings. Their training covers both classroom/theory instruction and practical, hands-on training tailored to the needs of learners of different experience levels — from beginners to industry veterans.
Train For The Crane also provides exam preparation: they guide participants through the content expected on the written certification exams, point out what’s especially important, and share test-taking tips and strategies.
Their mission underscores that becoming certified is not only beneficial for safety, but also that regulatory changes may make certification a requirement (they reference the 2018 federal requirement).They set expectations for students (show up on time, be ready to learn, take notes, ask questions) as part of their pledge to help students succeed.
This event is part of the Heavy Highway pathway for Garrett CDP students, as in an upcoming Golden Shovel event in Anderson, Indiana on October 1.