Senate Joint Resolution 7049, sponsored by Southerland, recognizes and congratulates Austin McKinney from the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Morristown for his outstanding achievement at the 2023 SkillsUSA State Leadership and Skills Conference. McKinney earned a gold medal in the Engineering Technology-Design and Computer Aided Design Technology competition held in Chattanooga from April 16-19, 2023. SkillsUSA is a national organization that promotes skilled trades and technical education, and McKinney's victory has qualified him to compete at the National SkillsUSA Championship in Atlanta, Georgia.

The resolution highlights McKinney's dedication and talent, which not only brings pride to his school and community but also reflects positively on the state of Tennessee. The Senate and House of Representatives commend him for his accomplishments and extend their best wishes for his future success. An appropriate copy of the resolution will be prepared for presentation, acknowledging McKinney's hard work and ambition in the field of engineering technology.