Jim Erdahl, instructor at the North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton, N.D., accepts the gold medal for Robert Isakson. During Friday's NACE luncheon, Darrell Andrews, chairman of the National Collision Repair Technology Committee of SkillsUSA, and Geralynn Kottschade, NACE chairman, recognized the winners of this year's Collision Repair Technology National Contest.

The Post-Secondary Gold Medal Winner of the 2005 SkillsUSA Championships was Robert Isakson from North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton, N.D. Isakson's instructor, Jim Erdahl, accepted the award on his behalf.

Josh Smith from Tazewell County Vocational Center in Tazewell, Va., was recognized as the Secondary Gold Medal Winner of this year's SkillsUSA Championships. Smith was joined by his instructor, Thomas Blankenship.

Josh Smith from Tazewell County Vocational Center in Tazeville, Va., is recognized as the Secondary Gold Medal Winner. The SkillsUSA Championships were held in June in Kansas City, Mo. More than 4,600 students competed in 80 skilled areas. Andrews' committee requires students to complete the following: metal work; an ASE test; refinishing; structural damage analysis; reconciling an estimate with published time guides; plastic identification and repair; and welding. Contestants are judged on the overall appearance of the finished products and proper safety practices.

"These young technicians face pressures during the event that demonstrate why they are true winners," said Andrews.

Both Isakson and Smith received medals from the Automotive Service Association (ASA) in recognition of their achievement.