GACTC takes first at bricklayer contest
Courtesy photo Jackson York (left) and Zack Merritts were named best in Western Pennsylvania at the 2025 Western Pennsylvania Regional Junior Spec Mix Bricklayer 500 Competition.
Courtesy photo Jackson York (left) and Zack Merritts were named best in Western Pennsylvania at the 2025 Western Pennsylvania Regional Junior Spec Mix Bricklayer 500 Competition.
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Students from the masonry program at the Greater Altoona Career and Technology Center secured the first place title at the 2025 Western Pennsylvania Regional Junior Spec Mix Bricklayer 500 competition.
The event, which showcases excellence in the masonry and construction trades, took place on Sept. 25 at Highmark Stadium in Pittsburgh.
The winning team consisted of mason Jackson York (Hollidaysburg) and his laborer Zack Merritts (Williamsburg). They successfully constructed the highest-quality 9-foot, 4-inch brick wall within the intense 20-minute time limit, earning them a trophy, a cash prize and the title of best in Western Pennsylvania.
The Spec Mix Bricklayer 500 is a prestigious annual competition for high school and apprentice participants. It tests the precision, accuracy and speed of young masons, with the event also featuring educational sessions designed to promote careers in the construction industry.
"We are incredibly proud of Jackson and Zack for their outstanding skill and hard work," said Lindsay Miksich, GACTC Principal.