Ag mech projects win ribbons at San Antonio show

Sophomore+Gabe+McLemore+works+on+a+part+for+a+trailer+being+built+by+the+Ag++Mech++team.

Sophomore Gabe McLemore works on a part for a trailer being built by the Ag Mech team.

Kaline Martinez, Editor

Sparks flew this winter and spring in the ag complex as students worked on their projects for spring shows.  

Seniors Sydney Lebel and Katy Webb created a bench from wood and a metal trough. They were inspired by Pinterest and decided to turn it into a real-life project. The bench has been sold for $300, and money will be split between both seniors. The project received a red ribbon at the San Antonio show. 

“It was a really fun project to do. I think I stayed at school late that whole week trying to finish it, but I got it done,” Lebel said. “It wasn’t bad for a couple of girls doing a welding project. I’m pleased with the results.”

Seniors Wade Taylor, Grant Bell and BJ Latham built a trailer. They all helped cutting and grinding metal to put together the 26-ft long trailer. The trailer received a blue ribbon, meaning they earned a spot to place. 

“My favorite part about it is that we have a hydraulic jack. I was pretty happy about the results, we could have definitely done a whole lot better,” senior Wade Taylor said. “We forgot the books, or everything would have been perfect.”

Although they struggled a bit in some areas, the hard work paid off in San Antonio. The students are ready to make necessary adjustments for the next contest in Houston. 

“I am excited about the next competition,” Lebel said. “We’ll be making some adjustments: we’re going to sand it down, repaint and fix the side of the armrest to be better-rounded with the trough. It’s going to be worth it.”