For the first time in the chapter’s history, the Technology Student Association at Rockdale Career Academy is headed to the national convention in Dallas, Tex. on June 22 and they need the community’s help. Advisor Amy Carter, Robotics and Mechatronics instructor at RCA, hopes to send the three club officers, which will cost about $1000 total. Club president Samantha Greene, a junior at Rockdale County High School, is also a state TSA officer and is required to go.

The students recently returned from the state convention, where they competed with other TSA students from around the state in categories such as problem solving, manufacturing prototypes, and vex robotics. RCA students placed fourth in Structural Design, fourth in Vex Robotics, fifth in model dragster design and eighth in model golf cart design.

RCHS junior Amanda Mordt and RCHS senior Jalynn Young, who have both been in TSA for two years, are preparing to enter the architecture competition at the national convention by drawing up a design and 3D model for a children’s museum, complete with castle and moat where kids can build and race their own model boats. For the state competition, they designed living quarters for an Alzheimer’s patient.

Being in the TSA changed their career outlooks. “I learned I liked hands-on things,” said Young, who plans on going into architecture. Mordt said she now plans on going into engineering, but never would have thought of that direction without her experience in TSA. “It’s had a big effect on all of us.”

The chapter is raising funds by offering laser engraving services. Items ranging from laptops to cell phones to plaques, vases and sports equipment can be engraved at a reasonable cost, said Carter. “I will make it work for your budget,” she said. For more information, call 770-388-5677 x31131 or email acarter@rockdale.k12.ga.us