Instructor: Charles Crum
charles.crum@fcps.org
227-203-3651, Ext. 56571
... to prepare students for a lifetime of learning and individual accomplishment by providing the knowledge and hands-on experience to be successful.
... to prepare students for a lifetime of learning and individual accomplishment by providing the knowledge and hands-on experience to be successful.
HVAC and Plumbing Student Wins National Gold!
“...and receiving gold — Andrew Winkler from Maryland!” echoed across the SkillsUSA National Awards stage, marking the triumph of a two-year journey fueled by talent, discipline, and persistence. Since first learning to shape sheet metal at CTC in 2023, Andrew has proven himself a standout competitor, capturing state gold and placing fifth nationally last year — one of Maryland’s best-ever finishes. As a senior, Andrew balanced graduation and post-school practice sessions, refining his craft with mentors from Honest Air and SMART Local 100. His preparation paid off when judges threw an unexpected challenge: a complex square-to-round plus radius-90 fitting. Calm under pressure, Andrew’s precision and professionalism earned him the 2025 SkillsUSA National Gold Medal in Sheet Metal — a well-deserved finish for a true Champion of the Trade.
2025 SkillsUSA Champion, Andrew Winkler (center) receiving gold in Atlanta.
Shadowing the HVACR and Plumbing Program
During a shadowing visit students will get a firsthand look at what it’s like to train for a career in the skilled trades. Visitors will tour the lab, observe hands-on activities, and see how students work with real tools and equipment used in the plumbing and HVACR industries. They’ll also have the opportunity to meet the instructor and current students, ask questions, and learn about the many career paths, certifications, and apprenticeships.
Strength in Skills, Power in Unity: Supporting Women in Trades
Frederick County Women in Trades is a community dedicated to unlocking the immense potential of women and girls in the skilled trades. We believe that a diverse workforce is a stronger workforce, and we are committed to breaking down barriers and creating pathways for women to thrive in these high-demand, high-reward careers. Through our comprehensive programs, we provide the resources, training, and mentorship necessary to equip women and girls with the skills, confidence, and leadership qualities to not only succeed in the trades but also to become leaders and innovators in their fields.
Ready to Work with Power, Pressure, and Precision?
The HVACR and Plumbing program gives you real-world skills in heating, cooling, and plumbing systems — the ones that keep homes comfortable and businesses running. You’ll get hands-on experience using professional tools, learn how to stay safe on the job, and discover what it takes to be part of the construction industry.
From day one, you’ll start building the skills that employers look for — the same skills that lead to paid apprenticeships and great careers. Along the way, you can earn industry-recognized certifications like OSHA-30, EPA Section 608, and manufacturer-level training that give you a serious edge when you graduate.