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and our industry partners for making this event possible.”

A fter several equipment operation tests, which involved moving dirt, digging holes, and other skills, it was Sears who came out on top as the state’s dozer champion. Sears also helped lead the Toombs County Heavy Equipment Operations Team – composed of himself, AJ Castillo, and Tom Brodnax – to be named the Team State Championships’ Runners-Up.

Sears and the team were awarded trophies, which will now be showcased at Toombs County High School in recognition of the Pathway’s growth. Toombs County High School plans to continue to grow this innovative program and continue to build their legacy as one of the strongest programs within the state.

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TEAM STATE RUNNERS-UP – The Toombs County High School Heavy Equipment Operations Team was named the State Runners-Up at the 2025 Georgia Heavy Equipment Operations State Championship. L to R: CAT Simulators Representative Curt Meyer, CAT Simulators Representative John Boehs, Toombs County High School Heavy Equipment Operations Teacher Tom Brodnax, AJ Castillo, Ryder Sears, Georgia Highway Contractors Association Engagement and Development Director Cody Dyer, Georgia Highway Contractors Association Technical Director Will Rogers.

SHOWCASING SKILLS – Competitors showcased their skills operating heavy machinery in several tasks, such as picking up and moving tires.