Northwest Florida State College has been named the Commissioner's Choice Winner among Florida College System institutions in the Florida Department of Education's Statewide Welding & Fabrication Challenge, a statewide competition commemorating America's 250th Anniversary.
The winning project, a handcrafted B-25B Mitchell replica known as the "Mighty Mitchell," was created by students in Northwest Florida State College's Welding Technology Program and selected by Florida Commissioner of Education Anastasia Kamoutsas as the top entry in its division.
The Statewide Welding & Fabrication Challenge invited students from public secondary, technical, and postsecondary institutions across Florida to design and create original metalwork installations inspired by America's 250th Anniversary. Projects were judged on craftsmanship, creativity, technical skill, and their ability to serve as lasting commemorations of the nation's 250th Birthday celebration.
"This recognition is a testament to the extraordinary talent, dedication, and craftsmanship of our welding students and faculty," said NWFSC President Mel Ponder. "The Mighty Mitchell not only showcases the technical excellence of our skilled trades programs, but also honors the military training legacy that inspired our Raider identity. We are incredibly proud to see our students' work recognized at the state level."
The B-25B Mitchell replica was unveiled on campus in May as part of the College's America 250 initiatives. The aircraft pays tribute to the historic Doolittle Raiders, who trained at nearby Eglin Field (now Eglin Air Force Based) prior to their famous mission during World War II. The connection to the Doolittle Raiders remains central to the College's history and traditions.
The project required more than 2,000 hours of design, fabrication, welding, and finishing work, bringing together students and faculty from the Welding Technology Program and Art Department to develop the America 250 design and create a permanent installation that reflects both technical mastery and historical significance.
Under the leadership of Skilled Trades Department Director Scott Bennett and Welding Program faculty, students worked throughout the academic year to bring the project from concept to completion.
The award highlights Northwest Florida State College's continued commitment to workforce education and hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for careers in high-demand industries.
The Mighty Mitchell remains on display outside Building 320 on the Niceville Campus as a lasting symbol of craftsmanship, innovation, and the enduring spirit of the Raider Nation.
