Fort Hays Tech | North Central
BELOIT – Navarre Plagmann, from Sumner, Nebraska, is a talented welding student in the Fort Hays Tech | North Central Beloit welding program.
Plagmann has been named a national finalist in the prestigious Project MFG National competition—a Department of Defense initiative designed to promote careers in manufacturing and skilled trades across the United States.
The competition challenges students to complete complex, real-world projects based on equipment and technologies used in government production.
This year’s focus was the M1 Abrams tank, while previous years featured aircraft such as the Corsair, SR-71 Blackbird, and the B-2 Stealth Bomber.
Plagmann’s ability to read and interpret blueprints and his mastery of welding processes earned him a spot among the nation’s top finalists. He will now advance to the national competition, which will take place in Big Rapids, Michigan. Each year, the location and project are different, ensuring the competition remains dynamic and rigorous.
“This competition really pushes your skills,” said Plagmann. “You have to know your craft inside and out, especially when you’re working on projects modeled after real military-grade equipment.”
The national round of Project MFG is professionally filmed and broadcast on YouTube through the Clash of Trades channel, which features a wide range of manufacturing disciplines, from CNC machining to welding. The series not only highlights the competition, but also aims to raise awareness about the importance of skilled labor in strengthening the nation’s economy.
Plagmann’s achievement places him among the top young tradespeople in the country, and his upcoming appearance on the national stage is a proud moment for both his community and school.
To watch the competition and learn more about Project MFG, visit the Clash of Trades YouTube channel.