North Idaho College autobody students shine at state competition

Nine North Idaho College students showcased their skills at the SkillsUSA Autobody and Collision Repair competition April 8 and 9 at the College of Western Idaho’s Micron Building in Nampa.

The event featured students from across the state who competed in hands-on challenges designed to mirror scenarios in the autobody and collision repair industry.

NIC students Ash Lafleur earned silver and Kamryn Wixom earned bronze in Automotive Refinishing Technology, while Taryn Costa won bronze in Collision Repair Technology.

“Competing in SkillsUSA is always an incredible opportunity for our students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom and lab in a competitive environment,” NIC autobody and paint technology instructor Andy Rogge said in a Thursday news release. “I’m proud of what they did and how well they performed.”

Throughout the competition, students were challenged with tasks that ranged from prepping and refinishing vehicle panels to diagnosing and repairing collision damage. Each task was judged by industry professionals.

“The competition was fun and motivating, and I felt very relaxed and confident in my abilities,” Costa said. “This whole experience also gave me opportunities to introduce myself to local body shop owners and people who have been in the industry for years.”

    North Idaho College student Fisher Harrin competes in a SkillsUSA challenge Tuesday at the College of Western Idaho’s Micron Building in Nampa.
  

    From left, North Idaho College students Kamryn Wixom, Taryn Costa and Ash Lafleur pose for a photo with their SkillsUSA medals Wednesday.