In preparation for the 2014 National Technology Student Association (TSA) Competition in Washington D.C., students were encouraged to spread the twitter phrase, #myTSAstory. It was seen on Facebook, the back of blue shirts given at the competition, and even on little ribbons attached to students’ nametags. Students from across the country shared their TSA stories. For six Gig Harbor High School students, their story at the National competition turned for the best.

They were a part of Tech Club, a fairly new club at GHHS that was created two years ago. Last year was the club’s first year associated with TSA. After placing well at the state competition in March, some of these students learned they qualified for Nationals. They, accompanied by Mr. Marten and his wife, traveled to Washington D.C. to compete in the National TSA Competition. It lasted from June 27 to July 1, and around 6,000 students from across the nation competed in various events related to STEM careers or topics. Some events GHHS students competed in include animatronics, structural engineering, and biotechnology design. On the last day of the competition, GHHS students and advisor Mr. Marten were excited when senior Patrick Spieker won second place in extemporaneous speech.

Overall it was a rewarding experience for those who competed. Sophomore Kelly Monro explained, “I’ve learned a lot about being efficient and how to manage your time.” Figuring out meals, making sure she wasn’t late to events, and planning out time to practice her presentation helped her learn this useful skill. Trevor Anderson’s favorite part of the competition was “getting to meet a whole lot of new people and potentially winning.” The Tech Club members hope to return to Nationals next year when it is hosted in Texas.