Rex Lumber awards scholarships, inspires future industry leaders

By Haley Mitchell Godwin

Rex Lumber in Troy, in collaboration with Crenshaw County Public Schools, recently held the annual “GET THE JOB” competition. Aimed at preparing high school seniors for the professional world, the competition invited twelfth graders enrolled in the Crenshaw County Public School system to submit mock job applications to Rex Lumber, Troy. After a rigorous selection process, the top two applicants from each school earned the opportunity to participate in a simulated interview with Rex Lumber professionals.

Reflecting on the competition’s significance, Crenshaw County College and Career Coach Haley Beasley Kilcrease emphasized its role in equipping students with essential real-world skills.

“Having interviews and filling out job applications helps them prepare for the real world and life after high school,” said Kilcrease.

The winners were announced with Highland Home School’s Avery Williams securing the first-place position, while Madison Means claimed the runner-up spot.

From Luverne School, Turner Claybrook emerged victorious in the first-place category, with Aderion Foster securing the runner-up position.

At Brantley School, Kaitlyn Piggott clinched the first-place title, followed by Kaydance Kelley as the second-place recipient.

In recognition of their achievements, first-place winners from each school received a $100 gift card while the runners-up were rewarded with a $50 gift card.

Rex Lumber, Troy extended its engagement with the community beyond the scholarship contest,  by hosting 11 students from the 2024 Skid Steer Skills for Success program. This initiative, a collaboration between the Crenshaw County school system and the Lurleen B. Wallace Community College (LBW) Workforce Development and Continuing Education program, allows students a way to earn Alabama Community College System credentials for skid steer driving. According to Kilcrease, the visit provided students with insights into the operations of the facility and the lumber industry, fostering a deeper understanding of potential career pathways and life after high school.

Expressing gratitude towards Rex Lumber for their support, Kilcrease extended special appreciation to Michael Walker, an alumnus of Brantley High School, for offering the invitation. Rex Lumber reciprocated the sentiment through a Facebook post, acknowledging the enthusiasm displayed by students from Crenshaw County during their visit to the sawmill.

“We were proud to host Crenshaw County Schools, Luverne High School, and Highland Home School students visit our sawmill,” the post read. “It was fantastic to see your interest in the lumber process. We hope it inspired you to consider a career in the forest products industry!”

Photos courtesy of Crenshaw County Schools • College and Career.

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