On May 5, 2025, TMG, Inc. proudly continued its tradition of honoring the Welders of the Year from the New Horizons Regional Education System—a celebration that began in 2004. Joe Barto, President and Founder of TMG, and Marsha Cale, Executive Director of the New Horizons Regional Education Centers, welcomed the families and friends of this year’s honorees.

Four outstanding students were recognized as Welders of the Year for their dedication, leadership, exemplary work ethic, and positive attitude. Barto acknowledged the incredible contributions of Ed Dupree and Pierette Swan, the dedicated welding instructors at the Butler Farm and Woodside Lane campuses, for their vital role in preparing students for success in the workforce.

At the Butler Farm campus, Carter Knaub and Grant Gibson were named Welders of the Year. Both served as student General Foremen, assisting instructors with training and shop management throughout the year. They were praised for their dependability, hard work, and commitment to excellence. Each participated in the SkillsUSA Welding Competition and the Project MFG Challenge.

At the Woodside Lane campus, Bevyn Yourko received the AM Welder of the Year award. Known for her reliability, talent, and leadership, Bevyn competed in regional events and supported community events through her welding skills. She was also recently named one of Hampton Roads’ “20 Under 20” by the Workforce Council and will be joining Liebherr Mining as a future employee.

The PM Welder of the Year award went to Mehana Stephens, a quiet yet powerful leader whose perseverance helped lead her team to a first-place finish in the SkillsUSA Team Fabrication Competition. Mehana has also secured future employment with Liebherr Mining.

The Mark Orton Honorarium celebrates exceptional Career and Technical Education completers who embody the values lived by Mark Orton. Mark served Ball Metal for thirty-two years, beginning as an entry-level production mechanic and retiring as Plant Manager in 2013. This recognition, presented annually by his family and friends, pays tribute to his legacy and work ethic.

Barto shared his gratitude for the opportunity to honor Mark’s life each year and expressed the importance of continuing to inspire future leaders through this meaningful recognition.

Congratulations to the 2025 Welders of the Year and Mark Orton Honorarium recipients from the New Horizons Regional Education Centers at Butler Farm and Woodside Lane!

Butler Farm Campus (Dewey Ray, Principal)
Welders of the Year

• Grant Gibson

• Carter Knaub
  Mark Orton Memorial

• Caden Civilla

• Jacob Hassan

Woodside Lane Campus (Nicole Stephens, Principal)
Welders of the Year

• Mariana (Bevyn) Yourko

• Mehana Stephens
  Mark Orton Memorial

• Abigail Shelton

• Trennidy Thompson

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