SkillsUSA

Empowering Students for Career Success

SkillsUSA is a national nonprofit organization that empowers students to become world-class workers, leaders, and responsible American citizens through Career and Technical Education (CTE) training. The organization offers various programs and activities, including competitions in areas such as leadership, technical skills, and occupational proficiency. SkillsUSA works closely with businesses and industry partners to ensure its programs are relevant to workforce needs, promoting a skilled workforce and closing the skills gap.

SkillsUSA Events

Join SkillsUSA and discover your potential!

SkillsUSA events are designed to showcase the skills and knowledge of students in various CTE fields. These events include local, regional, state, and national competitions where students participate in over 100 skill categories, such as welding, carpentry, healthcare, culinary arts, robotics, and more. The competitions simulate real-world job scenarios and are judged by industry professionals, allowing students to demonstrate their technical, leadership, and teamwork abilities. In addition to competitions, SkillsUSA also hosts leadership conferences, networking opportunities, and workshops that help students develop soft skills and connect with industry leaders.

Sample Competitions

SkillsUSA competitions cover a wide array of fields and are designed to test the skills of students in various technical, trade, and service occupations. These competitions provide hands-on experience and help students develop industry-specific skills, preparing them for careers in their respective fields. They also offer opportunities for recognition and networking with professionals and potential employers. Here are some sample competitions across different categories:

Skilled and Technical Sciences Competitions

  • Automotive Service Technology: Vehicle maintenance and repair, including engine repair, electrical systems, brakes, suspension, and diagnostics.
  • Carpentry: Building a wood structure, showcasing measuring, cutting, assembling, and following blueprints.
  • Welding: Various welding techniques, such as SMAW, GMAW, and GTAW, with a focus on precision and safety.

Health Occupations Competitions

  • First Aid/CPR: Performing first aid and CPR procedures in emergency scenarios.
  • Medical Assisting: Administrative and clinical tasks in a medical office, including patient interaction and record-keeping.
  • Nursing Assisting: Common nursing assistant tasks, such as patient care, taking vital signs, and effective communication.

Leadership and Professional Skills Competitions

  • Prepared Speech: Delivering a speech on a topic related to SkillsUSA and CTE.
  • Job Interview: Simulated job interview process, including resume submission and answering questions.
  • Extemporaneous Speaking: Preparing and delivering a speech on a given topic within a limited time.

Arts and Communication Competitions

  • Photography: Capturing images in various settings, demonstrating skills in camera handling, composition, and post-processing
  • Television (Video) Production: Creating a video project, from concept to finished product.
  • Advertising Design: Creating visual designs based on given specifications.

Information Technology Competitions

  • Cybersecurity: Solving problems related to network security, cryptography, and threat analysis
  • Information Technology Services: Computer maintenance, software troubleshooting, networking, and customer service
  • Web Design and Development: Creating a website based on specific guidelines

Manufacturing Competitions

  • CNC Milling Specialist: Setting up, programming, and operating CNC milling machines
  • Mechatronics: Working on automated systems, testing knowledge in mechanics, electronics, and computer control
  • Robotics and Automation Technology: Designing, building, and programming robots