Brian DeGeorgio and Brian Carr, Field Services Team at Tough Tower 2025

Did you catch all the action at this year’s Tough Tower event in Youngstown, OH?  Our very own Technical Product Trainer, Brian DeGeorgio, and Field Technician, Brian Carr, made the road trip to experience the competition that’s quickly becoming a must-watch in the tower industry.

Tough Tower is a two-day skills competition designed for tower technicians who have undergone rigorous training to master their craft. The event is judged by industry sponsors and members of the National Association of Tower Erectors (NATE), many of whom have also completed extensive training and bring expertise to the competition. Participants face a series of challenges that mirror real-world tasks, from rigging to lighting installations.

We were proud to see the Flash Vanguard® Medium FTS 370 LED Obstruction Lighting System we donated last year used again for this year’s Lighting Challenge. This event simulates the critical task of climbing a tower, installing the flashhead, routing and connecting the cable, and powering the system.

Another essential test was the Rescue Challenge, which requires teams to safely lower an “injured” mannequin from the tower. While a vital skill, it’s a skill every technician hopes to never need yet must always be prepared for.

Now in its third year, Tough Tower continues to grow in participation and impact, promoting industry safety standards in a fun, competition-friendly setting. The winning team walks away with $7500 prize and bragging rights for their company.

Behind the scenes, Brian C. and Brian D. were all-in. They staffed our booth, handing out promotional giveaways, and made time to connect with vendors, technicians, and spectators alike. Not only did they network, but also served as event judges. Their presence highlighted our commitment to safety, training, and the tower tech community.

📸 Be sure to check out the photo gallery for a behind-the-scenes look at our team in action!

For more information about Tough Tower: https://toughtower.com/

Looking to get training in Flash and ITL medium intensity obstruction lighting with Brian DeGeorgio? Learn more about our training classes: https://www.flashtechnology.com/medium-intensity-training/