Students in the Technology and Engineering program at Colquitt County High School are gaining national attention after advancing in the 2026 Make:48 television challenge, an intensive, real-world engineering competition that tests creativity, collaboration, and innovation.
As part of their capstone project, students in Mr. Robbie Pitts’ Engineering Applications class were selected to represent CCHS in the prestigious competition. Participants were paired with a national business partner, Fastenal, and tasked with solving a real-world engineering challenge presented by the company.
Over the course of 12 weeks, student teams worked to transform their ideas into fully developed prototypes. The process required them to move from initial concept sketches to functional designs while navigating tight deadlines and adapting to new challenges along the way. Throughout the experience, students strengthened their problem-solving skills, teamwork, and ability to think creatively under pressure.
Recently, teams submitted 60-second video pitches showcasing their innovative solutions. Following this round, one team from Mr. Pitts’ class, seniors Bailey Truett and Lily Hunt, was selected to advance to the next stage of the competition.
Bailey and Lily were given the opportunity to compete for a chance to appear on Make:48, a fast-paced national invention competition and television docuseries where teams have just 48 hours to create a working prototype, promotional video, and sales sheet in response to a sponsor’s challenge. After successfully advancing through the first two rounds of competition, the duo earned a spot in the official live regional playoff event this upcoming June.
To reach this milestone, the team prepared a one-minute video presentation, delivered a five-minute virtual presentation, and participated in a live question-and-answer session with representatives from Fastenal. Their performance secured them a place at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta, Georgia.
At the regional competition, Bailey and Lily will compete on the Make:48 stage as part of a televised, nationwide event. In addition to competing for cash prizes and national recognition, they may also have the opportunity to see their design implemented by Fastenal in its corporate operations.
“This experience has provided an incredible opportunity for our students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom to a real-world engineering challenge,” said Pitts. “Working alongside a major industry partner has given them valuable insight into the design process and the impact their ideas can have beyond the classroom.”
The Make:48 competition highlights the power of hands-on learning and showcases how Colquitt County students are preparing for future careers through innovation, creativity, and real-world problem solving.