Georgia CTI proudly hosted the 43rd Annual State Leadership Conference and Competition (SLC) April 16–18 at Rock Eagle 4-H Center in Eatonton, Georgia. This three-day event brought together over 500 students from across the state, 140 judges, 94 CTI Coordinators, paraprofessionals, and 50 adult chaperones to celebrate a year of achievement in CTI, recognize student growth and talent, and showcase the skills gained through each student’s chosen career pathway.
Competition was the heart of the event, with 426 students competing in 55 pathways. An additional 146 students participated in leadership sessions led by Rock Eagle staff, CTI Coordinators, board members, and volunteers. Students had opportunities to practice networking, build team skills, and explore virtual work experiences with Be Pro Be Proud. Ples C. Davis (Career Technical Instructional Coordinator) enlisted nine East Paulding students to attend, compete, and enjoy the 3-day conference competitions and leadership activities.
First, I want to thank the awesome CTAE teachers who instruct these students day in and year out in these competitive program areas, developing and fine-tuning their career and employability skills. Without these dedicated professionals, these spectacular results wouldn't be possible.
East Paulding High School competed in 6 competitive areas with awesome results.

• Automotive Technology Service 1 - Benjamyn Thomas - 1st Place
• Cosmetology Hair Design 1 - Elizabeth Wallace - 1st Place
• Cosmetology Nail Design 1 - Kayliana Enoch - 2nd Place
• Culinary Arts Professional Foods 1 - Christopher Plummer - 2nd Place

Honorable Mention:

• Cosmetology Hair Design - Londyn Frank
• Creative Occupational Thinking - Zakiya Scott and James Pugh

I also, want to extend a heartfelt thanks to GVRA, the Georgia DOE CTAE Division, our Board of Directors, dedicated judges, volunteers, Dr. Barbara Wall, Chris Wells, the Rock Eagle 4-H Center staff, and our generous supporters who made this event possible. The 2025 SLC was a powerful celebration of student success, leadership, and the promise of bright futures. Pictured 1st Place winners Elizabeth Wallace and Benjamyn Thomas.