May 27, 2026 — Cobb Innovation and Technology Academy (CITA) recent graduates, Nick Briere and Andrea Martinez, were named two of six students in Georgia to be recognized by NAPA on SkillsUSA National Signing Day.
Nick and Andrea were standouts in the SkillsUSA Program at CITA. Nick plans to continue his education at the University of Northwestern Ohio to study High Performance Motorsports, while Andrea is headed to Universal Technical Institute to study Automotive Technology.
As part of the recognition, Nick and Andrea joined fellow Georgia students at Truist Park to sign letters of intent to enter the skilled trades. Nick and Andrea each received a Carlyle toolbox set to help launch their careers, as well as a $2,500 NAPA scholarship to support their education at the next level. The evening also included celebratory activities with family and friends, along with special box seats at the Braves game.
"We couldn’t be prouder of Nick and Andrea," said CITA Assistant Director Dr. Alvin Decuir. "Being chosen as two of only six students in Georgia is a remarkable honor, and it speaks to their talent, drive, and the skilled trades pathway they’re pursuing. Signing Day celebrates exactly what's possible when students commit to skilled careers and the incredible opportunities those careers offer, both personally and professionally."
2025 CITA graduate, Deisy Palomo Rios, spoke at the presentation event and encouraged the 2026 grads to continue pursuing great things. Deisy is currently a transmission apprentice at Jim Ellis Ford and a Ford ASSET student at Gwinnett Technical College.
By empowering the next generation of skilled professionals and career-ready leaders, SkillsUSA and NAPA are closing the skills gap while highlighting the amazing opportunities that exist in fulfilling, lucrative, and in-demand skilled careers.
Congratulations to Nick and Andrea, for being singled out as two exceptional students in this nationwide celebration!
Photos courtesy SkillsUSA
About NAPA
Through nearly 6,000 auto parts stores and over 18,000 auto care centers in the U.S., NAPA has America's largest network of parts and care. The NAPA Network is supported by nationwide distribution centers that carry approximately 800,000 parts, accessories, and supplies. Widely recognized for quality parts, rapid availability, and knowledgeable people, NAPA Auto Parts stores serve automotive service professionals, do-it-yourselfers, and everyday drivers with quality parts to keep cars, trucks, and other automotive equipment performing safely and efficiently. For more information, visit their website.
About SkillsUSA
SkillsUSA is the #1 workforce development organization for students, empowering them to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders, and responsible community members. SkillsUSA represents more than 444,000 career and technical education students and teachers in middle schools, high schools, and post-secondary institutions nationwide. Those members represent 130 in-demand occupational areas, from 3-D animation to welding. A vital solution to the skills gap, SkillsUSA has served over 15 million members since its founding in 1965. Learn more on the SkillsUSA website.
