Over one hundred candidates registered at the Columbus McKinnon booth for the chance to become the next scholar to TOMCAT U - however, only one could win.

TOMCAT USA would like to congratulate the most recent scholarship winner: Chris Mount, a student at University of Texas at Arlington.

The scholarship to the Hoist and Truss Workshop from June 4-7 includes: all instruction and materials, lodging, lunches, dinners, snacks as well as all local transportation. The participant will be responsible for transportation to and from Midland, Texas.

The instruction will cover basic and advanced maintenance and troubleshooting techniques for CM Lodestars and Prostars; advanced troubleshooting scenarios; an overview of hoist control; basic and advanced instruction on truss design, usage and theory; live demonstrations of truss inspection and destruction.

Chris' initial response to the win was one of shock: "I couldn't believe that I won!" he exclaimed during the congratulatory phone call. Chris is earning a BFA degree in design at the UT branch. His primary focus in his studies has been electrics, lighting and sound. When he completes his studies in about two years, he hopes to work in various venues and tours - including work with touring bands and perhaps the cruise line industry.

"I'm excited to attend the workshop because it will give me professional insight on trussing and motors," Chris explained, "This is knowledge I'll need when I enter the workforce."

In addition to the Hoist & Truss Workshop, TOMCAT will also offer the Rigging & Truss Workshop from June 4-7, 2008. In addition to the truss curriculum, instruction and discussion in this workshop will include the following topics: wire rope, shackles, force, reaction & load distribution, force distribution in complex structures; forces in bridles (math solution), forces in bridles (vector solution); fall protection; shock load demonstrations with hands on portions including knot tying and pulling points; rescue demonstration with hand on portions including harness fitting, truss/ladder climbing and pulling points.