April 21, 2026
By EMILY MARSHALL
Rutherford County Schools
The Tennessee Technology Student Association State Leadership Conference 2026 brought together top STEM students from across the state, with Blackman High School’s TSA chapter earning a state title. Held in Chattanooga, the State Leadership Conference is the premier event for TSA members, featuring competitive events, leadership development opportunities, and college and career exploration.
Students demonstrate their skills in areas ranging from engineering design and digital media to communication and problem-solving while connecting with peers and industry professionals.
State Champion & National Qualifier
Aiden Haynes claimed a state title in CAD 3D Engineering, earning the opportunity to represent Tennessee at the National TSA Conference in Washington, D.C., June 22–26.
Finalists
Evan Lake, Dominic Tran, and Jalahni Thansamai won the regional contest in Digital Video Production.
As the only RCS program to compete, Blackman High School sent 20 students to this year’s conference. Students earned Top 12 finishes in events including photography, extemporaneous speech, architectural design, digital video production, and promotional design. Their success reflects the continued growth and strength of TSA programs and a strong commitment to preparing students for high-demand careers in STEM fields.
The Technology Student Association is a national Career and Technical Student Organization focused on preparing students for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Through career-aligned competitions, leadership opportunities, and real-world applications, TSA equips students with the skills needed for future success. To learn more about TSA, visit https://tsaweb.org.