CarolinaPower’s Alex Smith and Shawn Vickery Compete at 2026 ABC National Craft Championships
In recognition of National Apprenticeship Week, we are celebrating two of CarolinaPower’s outstanding apprentices, Alex Smith and Shawn Vickery, who recently represented our company at the 2026 Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) National Craft Championships.
After earning top finishes in both our internal Apprentice Competition and the Battle of the Bolts competition against sister company MetroPower earlier this year, Alex and Shawn advanced to compete on a national stage alongside more than 200 of the country’s top craft professionals across 15 divisions.
Alex and Shawn competed in the Residential/Commercial Electrical category of the competition, demonstrating the talent and hard work that apprenticeship programs help develop every day.
The National Craft Championships highlight the future of the construction industry by showcasing the skill, dedication, and discipline required to succeed in the trades. Competitors complete an online exam followed by a six-hour hands-on performance test designed to simulate real jobsite conditions where safety, planning, leadership, and craftsmanship are critical.
At CarolinaPower, we are proud to invest in apprenticeship and workforce development opportunities that help build the next generation of skilled professionals. This week especially, we recognize the value apprentices bring to our industry and celebrate those who are committed to learning, growing, and building their careers in construction.

