The Navigators from the Maxwell High School of Technology in Lawrenceville, Georgia placed first at the Quaker State "Best in Class Challenge." This competition requires students to transform a pre-owned car into a creative representation of their school.

During the month of September, approximately 27 high schools across the United States campaigned to secure votes so that they could become one of the five teams to compete nationally in the “Best in Class Challenge.” Since only one school could be selected from the Atlanta market, the following six had to compete in hopes of becoming the group to represent their region: Maxwell High School of Technology, Troup County High School, Alexander High School, Heard County High School, Etowah High School, and Forsyth Central High School. Despite everyone’s hard efforts, the Navigators acquired the most votes and moved on to participate in the “Best in Class Challenge.”

The five teams that advanced received a vehicle valued at $3,000 to work on and a $2,000 AutoZone gift card to purchase needed supplies. They then tackled six intense weeks of car restoration with a specific challenge to accomplish each week. Their work was scored on progress, quality, and the overall final product by two esteemed judges, Tommy Pike, owner of Tommy Pike Customs, and Paul Menard, driver of the No. 27 Quaker State-Menards Chevrolet SS in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series.

As the first place winners, the Navigators were awarded a $2,000 AutoZone gift certificate for their school and a custom Advertorial in Popular Mechanics. The top three finalists were afforded the opportunity to attend the Mecum Auction in Austin, Texas on December 11, 2015 and auction off their cars with all proceeds going to their schools.

"We are so grateful to have been able to be a part of the Quaker State 'Best in Class Challenge,’" said Max Chavez, auto shop team leader for Maxwell High School of Technology. "It's great for a brand like Quaker State to realize the potential in our students as the next generation of automotive technicians and giving them the hands on experience they need to fully realize the opportunities that lie ahead."

Congratulations to the Maxwell High School of Technology Navigators. Job well done!