Share this article:
Meet this years championship finalists
The Clash of Trades: Advanced Manufacturing competition has been an unforgettable ride this season, highlighting some of the most talented, passionate, and skilled manufacturing students from across North America. With 60 teams representing schools from 46 out of 50 U.S. states and Canadian provinces, the field was stacked with incredible talent. Now, just four elite teams remain, and they’re ready to battle it out for the championship title.
This year’s final promises to be epic. We’ve got a mix of returning competitors and ambitious newcomers, some chasing redemption, others making history, all with one goal: to take home the $100,000 grand prize and the honor of being crowned the 2025 Clash of Trades Advanced Manufacturing Champions.
Before the showdown begins, let’s meet the Final Four.
Autry Technology Center
Back for Redemption
Returning for their second year, Autry Technology has unfinished business. After a strong finish last season and earning second place, they’ve come back with better skill, tighter teamwork, and a strong determination for that $100,000 grand prize.
“Being in the top four for two years in a row has been an amazing experience. Although we have already been here my excitement for the 2025 national championships is at a higher level than it was last year, due to the fact that it is my last year to compete as a student.” – Kaden Delancy
This high-spirited team knows what’s at stake this upcoming week, but they also know that this is more than just a competition. It’s all about having fun, challenging their skills, and celebrating what they have accomplished throughout this year’s competition.
“What I’m looking forward to most is all the fun, seeing the other teams one last time, and making new connections.” –Kyle Venable
Central Alabama Community College
The Dynamic Duo
Another returning team from last season, Central Alabama, is making history in 2025. Jorge Rojas and Ashton Williams are stepping into the spotlight as the first-ever two-person team to qualify for the national championship, a feat that’s never been accomplished in Clash of Trades history.
Don’t let the team size fool you, this dynamic duo is efficient, focused, and fiercely competitive. Their chemistry, trust, and hustle have carried them through the regional rounds, and now they’re ready to take on the best in North America.
“It’s just the two of us, but that means everything we do is 100% on us. We’ve pushed each other hard all year to get here, and now it’s time to show what we’re made of.”
— Jorge Rojas
With determination and synergy on their side, Central Alabama Community College is proof that size doesn’t determine the capeabilities of a teams success!
Everett Community College
Back with new fire
Everett made a strong impression in last year’s competition, and now they’re back with a fresh lineup and unfinished business.
“It feels amazing to be back in the running for the National Championship. The visibility on a national level brings a tremendous amount of visibility to our machining program, and it’s awesome to have an opportunity to do that for a program and instructor that has given so much to me, and the trades in general.” – River Stormo
Returning competitor River Stormo brings championship experience and steady leadership to this year’s team. He’s joined by first-time finalists Kaedyn Belvins and Edward Smith, two rising stars who’ve quickly proven they can handle the pressure and precision that Clash of Trades demands.
“It feels like I get to be part of something amazing and bigger than myself. Before joining, I was worried that I wouldn’t be able to contribute much more than being an extra set of hands, but Edward and River have both shown me that I’m just as important for the team. It feels really great.” -Kaedyn Belvins
This year’s Everett crew is sharp, focused, and ready to level up!
Yuba College
Persistence Pays Off
Yuba College has been a returning team year after year in our Clash of Trades Advanced Manufacturing Competition Series, having many appearances in our Regional Rounds, and after hard work, dedication, and persistence, they have, for the first time ever have made it to the National Championship
“We come from a program that no one in our area really knows exists. We really feel like the underdogs compared to the other teams who’ve won PMFG before.” -Adam Davis
The advice that they would give any team that is considering participating in a Clash of Trades Advanced Manufacturing competition is:
“Want it, the more you want to win and want to show what it is you know the more you’ll drive yourself to practice. Doing this is hard, the parts are complex and the time constraint is tight. With passion and determination, though, you can prepare yourself well and show just how good you’ve become.” – Wyatt Curry
Whats Next?
Over the next week, these four elite teams will face off in a series of high-stakes challenges designed to test every facet of their advanced manufacturing skills, from CAD/CAM work to complex machine operations and real-world problem-solving under pressure.
It all leads up to the Clash of Trades Championship, where only one team will rise above the rest to claim the $100,000 prize and earn the title of 2025 Advanced Manufacturing Champions.
Stay tuned for daily updates, behind-the-scenes content, and exclusive interviews as we take you inside one of the most thrilling competitions in skilled trades today. Let the countdown to the championship begin!
