The competition is held in conjunction with the 2012 Partners in Progress Conference, which is hosted by a partnership between the Sheet Metal Workers International Association (SMWIA) and the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA).

The detailing category, which allows certified apprentices and journeymen to compete for a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle, is only in its second year with the annual competition. Prior to 2011, only apprentices were permitted to compete. The detailer category brought journeymen to the competition, and it is the only category in which they are allowed to take part.

Sean Edwards, of Rock City, Ill., is the only apprentice who qualified to be a finalist in the category. Although his sheet metal education has focused on computer-assisted drawing, he says he’s honored to be in the company of such experienced journeymen.

“I definitely feel like I’m in the spotlight even more knowing that I’m the only apprentice,” he added. “I look forward to seeing what the rest of the competitors bring to the table as well as the experience I will gain from the event.”

The winner of the detailing category will drive away from Las Vegas on a Harley-Davidson Fat Boy Lo provided by Henderson Harley-Davidson.

The top 12 finalists represent different parts of the United States, including Hawaii. The finalists are Dan Beyersdorf, Saginaw, Mich.; James Brierley, Spanish Fork, Utah; David Dias, San Ramon, Calif.; Sean Edwards, Rock City, Ill.; Jaymes Fleming, Woodinville, Wash.; Clyde Fujimoto, Honolulu; Douglas Haase, Washougal, Wash.; Anthony Belluardo, Aurora, Ohio.; Joey Hovarter, Moore, Okla.; Ryan Israel, Olathe, Mo.; Amelia Kelsay, Portland, Ore.; and Josh Menz, Rochester, N.Y.

For more information about the contest or ITI, visit www.sheetmetal-iti.org or call 703-739-7200.

Publication date: 01/16/2012