CACC Precision Machining Team Earns Second Place in National Project MFG Clash of Trades

Posted on Aug 12, 2025 at 4:55 PM

CACC Precision Machining Team Earns Second Place in National Project MFG Clash of Trades 

Students and College Receive $50,000 in Awards 

ALEXANDER CITY, AL – August 12, 2025 – Central Alabama Community College (CACC) has earned a major national honor, placing second in the Project MFG Clash of Trades competition. Machining students Jorge Soto-Rojos and Ashton Williams represented CACC against top teams from across the country, bringing home $25,000 in prize money for themselves and an additional $25,000 for the college’s workforce programs. 

The competition tested their skills under real-world conditions. Teams were judged on precision, problem-solving, and how well they worked together under pressure. 

“This is a proud moment for our students, our program, and our college,” said Pat Murphy, Maching Instructor at CACC. “To earn this recognition on a national stage shows the caliber of talent we have here in central Alabama. These students put in long hours, stayed focused, and proved they can compete with anyone.” 

Jorge Soto-Rojos said, “The competition was intense, but it pushed us to be better. I’m grateful for the support from our instructor and proud to represent CACC.” 

Ashton Williams added, “It means a lot to see our hard work pay off. This experience has prepared me for my career in ways I couldn’t have imagined.” 

The Clash of Trades, hosted by Project MFG, is designed to highlight the importance of skilled trades in building America’s workforce. By bringing together the best technical students from across the nation, it helps bridge the gap between classroom training and industry needs. 

“This award is more than a trophy or a title. It is an investment in our students and in the future of Alabama’s workforce,” said Michael Barnette, Dean of Workforce and Economic Development Programs at CACC. “The funding will help us provide even more opportunities for students to gain the skills that lead to great careers right here at home.” 

CACC’s machining program is part of a broader effort to meet regional workforce needs, offering training that leads directly to high-demand, high-wage careers. This national recognition underscores the value of investing in career and technical education in Alabama. 

For more information about CACC’s workforce programs, visit www.cacc.edu. 

  • Categories:
  • Press Release
  • Workforce Development
  • Workforce Education
  • Tags:

Media Contact