Zyion M. Smith, a first grader from Augusta, Ga., was honored in Atlanta recently for his artwork supporting Georgia’s manufacturing industry.

Smith took second place in his division (grades K-5) of the 2014 Manufacturing Appreciation Week (MAW) student design contest. He received a $300 scholarship check at the MAW Governor’s Awards Luncheon held at the Georgia International Convention Center. 

“These winners are the best and the brightest, and our future depends on them and their understanding of the creative process,” said Larry Callahan, CEO of Pattillo Industrial Real Estate, as the awards were being presented. 

Students from around the state submitted design entries featuring Georgia manufacturers and their products. Winners were named for grades 9-12, 6-8, and K-5. 

During the ceremonies, Gov. Deal named Georgia’s 2014 Manufacturers of the Year: Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation in Savannah and Brunswick in the large manufacturer category (more than 500 employees); Hitachi Automotive Systems Americas in Monroe in the medium manufacturer category (150-500 employees); and Tucker’s ddFoodSolutions in the small manufacturer category (fewer than 150 employees). 

Co-hosted by the Technical College System of Georgia and the Georgia Department of Economic Development, the awards luncheon is the highlight of MAW, celebrated this year April 14-18. This is the 20th year celebrating Manufacturing Appreciation Week in Georgia. 

This is an annual event and Georgia students in grades K-12 are asked to submit drawings that support Georgia’s manufacturing industry. The contest usually opens late October through late January. The drawings are submitted to Augusta Technical College and then judged in Atlanta. For more information contact Bonita Jenkins, Director of Marketing and Public Relations for the College.