Celebrating Excellence: Kevin Foster's Outstanding Achievement at the National Machining League Championship
The following was written by Mr. Tanger, Kevin's instructor at LCCTC:
We are thrilled to announce a remarkable accomplishment by one of our own—Kevin
Foster of Palmyra—who has demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication in the field of
precision machining.
A Journey of Skill and Determination
Kevin, a student in the Precision Machining Program at the Lebanon County Career and
Technology Center (LCCTC), embarked on a challenging journey by participating in the
inaugural National Machining League competition, hosted by Project MFG. This
competition, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Defense, aims to elevate the next
generation of highly skilled trade professionals by changing mindsets, fostering community
support, and highlighting the prestige of manufacturing careers.
The competition began in October 2024, with 45 schools from across the United States
entering students into the first round. Each school was permitted to submit up to three
students, with only one advancing to the national stage. Kevin was selected to represent
LCCTC, showcasing his exceptional talent and commitment.
Rising to the National Stage
In January 2025, Kevin and LCCTC received the exciting news that he was among the top 16
students nationwide invited to compete in the National Championship. The final
competition took place over three days at Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) in
Belleville, Illinois.
The event schedule was rigorous:
• Day 1: Eight hours dedicated to programming.
• Day 2: Eight hours focused on machining.
• Day 3: Industry tours, providing competitors with insights into leading
manufacturing facilities.
During the industry tours, Kevin had the opportunity to visit Seyer Industries, a premier
aerospace company, as well as Chelar Tool & Die and General Machine. These
experiences offered invaluable exposure to cutting-edge manufacturing processes and
potential career pathways.
Achieving National RecognitionKevin's hard work and perseverance culminated in an outstanding 2nd place finish at the
National Championship, earning him a $5,000 prize. This achievement not only highlights
Kevin's individual excellence but also underscores the quality of education and training
provided by LCCTC's Precision Machining Program.
Looking Ahead
Kevin Foster's success serves as an inspiration to his peers and a testament to the bright
future of skilled trades in our community. His journey reflects the importance of dedication,
skill development, and the support of educational institutions in achieving excellence.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Kevin and express our gratitude to the educators
and mentors who have supported him throughout this journey. His accomplishment brings
pride to Palmyra, LCCTC, and the broader community, exemplifying the potential and
promise of our students in the skilled trades.