The competition tests students’ prowess in events such as archery, log rolling, axe throwing, pole climbing and cutting wood with crosscut saws and chainsaws. Hawks is a student in HCC’s forest management technology program with plans to graduate next spring.
He grew up watching his dad work as a game warden and always knew he wanted to go into the natural resources field. In his spare time, he enjoys hunting, fishing and any outdoor sport available. The hands-on focus at HCC has been important to his success.
“We are outside every day,” Hawks said. “It makes it click when you do something hands-on. It gives you confidence that you know what you’re doing when you go into the field every day.”
He has been competing in lumberjack sports since becoming a student at HCC. Hawks gets to practice on the job as a performer for Lumberjack Feud in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, sometimes doing three shows per day.