Media Contact: Barbara Fornasiero, EAFocus Communications, 248.651.7536, cell: 586.817.8414, barbara@eafocus.com; Sue Briggs, Avondale Schools, 248.537.6041, susan.briggs@avondale.k12.mi.us
Auburn Hills, Mich. —Feb. 27, 2014—- Avondale School District, an achievement-oriented learning community focused on student leadership and success in academics, the arts and athletics, is pleased to announce Chris Riedy, a senior at Avondale High School, received first place in the auto refinishing segment at the regional Skills USA competition at Washtenaw Community College on Feb. 8. Chris is the son of Bill Riedy of Waterford and Mary Riedy of Auburn Hills.
Chris was one of 30 contestants competing in the refinishing segment. Within each segment, contestants complete certain tasks including but not limited to painting a fender, doing a blend panel, masking off a car for paint, estimating damage to a vehicle and identifying paint through a VIN number. The students are also judged on safety, time management and overall work skills.
As the first place winner in the refinishing segment, Chris qualified for the state level Skills USA competition and received a brand new Devilbliss Tekna spray gun as well as some buffing and sanding supplies for use in his future career.
“We are so proud of Chris for all his hard work and dedication to this program,” said Ted DeLater, Collision Repair and Refinishing teacher. “Chris’ leadership and dedication to automotive refinishing paid off at the regional competition. He’s a talented “fix-it” guy with a terrific future in front of him!”
Skills USA is a national organization that serves more than 310,000 high school and college students and professional members that are enrolled in training programs in technical, skilled, service and health occupations. The organization prepares high performance workers by providing quality education experiences for students in leadership, teamwork, citizenship and character development through building and reinforcing self-confidence, work attitudes and communications skills. The Skills USA programs include local, state and national competitions for students demonstrate occupational and leadership skills.
Chris will compete in the Michigan Skills USA competition from April 11-13 in Grand Rapids, Mich. To learn more about the Michigan Skills USA program, please visit organization’s website here.
About Avondale School District
Avondale School District is a collaborative community of teachers, staff and families working together to assure student success. The district, encompassing portions of Auburn Hills, Bloomfield Township, Troy and Rochester Hills, celebrates the richness of a diverse student population and strives to be a model school community that prepares students to be lifelong learners and contributing citizens to the world that awaits them upon graduation. Learn more about Avondale Schools, an AdvancED certified district, at www.avondale.k12.mi.us.
