And the Winners Are

Photos Here!

A couple weeks ago, our apprentices stepped up and put their skills to the test at our annual Apprentice Skills Contest—and we’re still thinking about it. From layout to execution, the level of focus, precision, and pride in their work was on full display. These events are always a reminder of just how much talent is coming up through the ranks, and how bright the future of our trades really is.

Behind every finished project is a full day of early starts, second looks, problem-solving, and steady hands. It’s contestants pushing themselves, judges giving their time and expertise, and a whole group committed to getting better together. This is what that looks like.

We’ve now gathered the full collection of photos—from the builds to the people to the awards—and you can check them out here:
[Insert Photo Album Link]

Congratulations again to all of our competitors for the work you put in and the pride you showed. And thank you to our judges for helping uphold the standard and support the next generation of skilled craftspeople.

Contest Results

1st Place Winners:
1st Year Brick: Timothy Christenson
2nd Year Brick: Seth Brandenburg
3rd Year Brick: Jake Olson
1st Year PCC: Brock Morine
2nd Year PCC: Sam Strandness
3rd Year PCC: Christian Solis
Tile: Anthony Fisher

2nd Place Winners:
1st Year Brick: Alex Eliason
2nd Year Brick: Matt Makis
3rd Year Brick: Ethan Krekelberg
1st Year PCC: Nathan Warhol-Holland
2nd Year PCC: Justin Capouch
3rd Year PCC: Josue Duran
Tile: Michael Demuth

3rd & 4th Place:
1st Year Brick: Ryan Smith
2nd Year Brick 3rd: Mike Stuhaug
2nd Year Brick 4th: Chris Anderson
Tile: Christian Schultz

And a final, well-earned thank you to our Premier Sponsors who make opportunities like this possible: Hollenback & Nelson Concrete & Masonry, The Minnesota Ceramic Tile Fund, Acme Tuckpointing & Restoration, Western Specialty Contractors, RAM Construction Services, and Floor & Decor. Your support directly impacts the training and growth of the next generation and keeps the bar exactly where it should be—high.

Well done to everyone involved.