Plumas Charter School students recently showcased their skills and determination at the Winters FFA Fabrication Contest, held on March 14, at the PG&E Gas Safety Facility in Winters, CA. This hands-on competition provided students with a unique, real-world learning experience, reinforcing PCS’s commitment to personalized education and career-readiness programs. 

The competition was designed as a rigorous challenge, requiring teams to construct a metal-framed bench and footstool with wooden slats—all within a six-hour time limit. Contestants were given the project design and blueprints the morning of the event, leaving no time for prior preparation. Despite facing this demanding task for the first time, Indian Valley Academy juniors Adin Lunder, Sheldon Foster and Rowdy Buhr embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and determination.

Guiding them through this experience was their instructor, Jesse Lazzarino, who owns Lazzarino Machine Works in Quincy and serves as the Career Technical Education pathway coordinator of Manufacturing and Metal Fabrication at PCS. “His expertise and mentorship have been instrumental in preparing students for hands-on learning experiences like this, equipping them with both technical skills and problem-solving abilities that will serve them well in future career opportunities,” said executive director Taletha Washburn. 

Although they were unable to complete the entire project within the allotted time, Lazzarino said that their craftsmanship was outstanding. “The quality of their work spoke volumes about their technical skills and ability to collaborate under pressure,” he said.  Initially, some students expressed disappointment, but during the drive home, excitement and reflection took over as they identified ways to improve and prepare for future competitions.

Beyond the competition itself, students gained invaluable experience in problem-solving, teamwork and hands-on fabrication techniques. Their efforts did not go unnoticed, and they walked away with a sense of accomplishment and a renewed enthusiasm for welding and fabrication. As a bonus, the team was able to bring their completed work back to Indian Valley Academy, where they will finish the project in class.

IVA parent and PG&E employee Tara Winters played a key role in connecting the welding class to this competition, bringing it to Lazzarino’s attention and encouraging student participation. The Winters FFA Fabrication Contest, organized as a senior project by Winters High School student Daniel Tejeda, was designed to challenge young welders and fabricators while fostering industry-relevant skills. Participating teams were judged on precision, craftsmanship, and teamwork, highlighting the importance of applied learning in career technical education. 
PCS continues to provide students with unique educational experiences that prepare them for future success. Whether through hands-on fabrication contests, career technical education or personalized learning pathways, PCS ensures students are equipped with skills and confidence to excel in their chosen fields. As open enrollment for the 2025-26 school year is underway through April 21, families are encouraged to consider PCS as their public school of choice for an individualized and dynamic educational experience.
By Rachel Goings, Public Relations Specialist  [email protected]