Piedmont Technical College Diversified Agriculture and Horticulture Technology students achieve outstanding results at 2026 National Collegiate Landscape Competition
Four standout students from the Piedmont Technical College (PTC) School of Agriculture recently returned from the National Collegiate Landscape Competition with outstanding results. Their achievements show that PTC’s Diversified Agriculture and Horticulture Technology programs remain powerhouses in their respective industries.
Held on the campus of Michigan State University from March 17–20, the 50th annual National Collegiate Landscape Competition brought together 726 competitors from two- and four-year colleges and universities across the country.
The PTC team consisted of students Andrew Jewell, Ian McCoy, Marquise Gantt and Emma McCaffrey. They were led by School of Agriculture Instructor and coach Andrew Warner.
The performance of Jewell and McCoy in the technical irrigation categories highlighted the week. The pair finished third in Irrigation Troubleshooting and fifth in Irrigation Assembly.
PTC’s team competed in a total of 11 events, finishing in the Top 20 in six of those categories. Their diverse expertise was on full display in:
• Technical Skills: Arboriculture Techniques, Irrigation Assembly and Irrigation Troubleshooting.
• Heavy Equipment: Compact Excavator Operation and Mini Track Loader Operation.
• Design & Estimation: Computer-Aided Landscape Design, Interior Landscape Design and Construction Cost Estimating.
• Field Operations: Landscape Maintenance Operations, Landscape Plant Installation and Safety First.
Individually, the team’s performance was equally impressive, with McCoy achieving a 10th place overall finish.
"Our students proved this week that they aren't just learning, they are mastering their respective industries," said PTC School of Agriculture Department Head Jeremy Brooks. "Watching them compete at this level against the best programs in the country and seeing Ian break into the National Top 10 is a testament to their dedication and the quality of our curriculum at PTC."
This successful trip was made possible through the generous support of AgFirst Farm Credit Bank. Its sponsorship provided the essential funds for travel, lodging and registration, allowing these students to showcase their talents on a national stage.