Phoenix Challenge Foundation Hosts 29th Skills Competition

Published: May 5, 2026, By Trevor

The Phoenix Challenge Foundation proudly hosted the 29th annual Phoenix Challenge High School Skills Competition at the CPCC Campus in Charlotte, North Carolina, bringing together top high school and career tech center flexographic printing students from across the country to showcase their technical expertise, teamwork, and innovation.

This year’s competition highlighted the next generation of young professionals aiming for the printing and packaging industries, reinforcing the Foundation’s mission of Building Tomorrow’s Workforce.

After a highly competitive event, the following teams earned top honors:

• 1st Place: Sadie Laarman & Zoe Steele — Careerline Tech Center
• 2nd Place: Austin Johnson & Destiny Zindle — CTC of Lackawanna County
• 3rd Place: Paisley VanKampen & Selah Greene — Careerline Tech Center

Participants were evaluated on a range of technical and problem-solving skills essential to modern flexographic printing, including prepress/plate mounting, press operation, math skills, and production efficiency. The competition continues to serve as a critical platform for students to gain real-world experience and connect with industry leaders.

1st Place - Sadie Laarman & Zoe Steele — Careerline Tech Center

2nd Place - Austin Johnson & Destiny Zindle — CTC of Lackawanna County

3rd Place - Paisley VanKampen & Selah Greene — Careerline Tech Center

“The Phoenix Challenge Competition represents the very best of career and technical education,” said Bettylyn Krafft. “These students are not only demonstrating exceptional skill but also helping to shape the future of our industry.”

The Phoenix Challenge Foundation extends its gratitude to educators, industry partners, and sponsors whose continued support makes this event possible year after year.

The Phoenix Challenge Foundation would like to thank the volunteer judges, educators, and industry experts! The Foundation couldn’t do it without you! 

The Foundation is a non-profit and has been “Building Tomorrow’s Workforce” for nearly 30 years. 100% backed by industry sponsors and supporters. The year’s High School Event Sponsors included: 

• Anderson & Vreeland - Harper Corporation of America
• FFTA - Miraclon
• JR Cole Industries Inc. - Brooke & Whittle
• TLMI - International Corrugated Packaging Foundation
• Graymills - DuPont