SkillsUSA is a national organization that brings together groups of students, instructors, and representatives from across the world. The organization hosts a wide range of career and technical education competitions, allowing participants to show off their skills in various trades and professions. In February, two talented groups from Brewer High School’s cosmetology department had the exciting opportunity to travel and put their skills to the test by competing against other top students from different schools.
The two teams were split by grade level; the seniors were team one, and the juniors were team two. The process of making it through the first round was difficult, but both teams left as winners, with seniors taking first and juniors taking second. The teams were able to showcase their fast thinking and determination skills, allowing them to learn from this experience, and now they get to spread their ability at state competitions.
“I was very happy to go to Corpus. It was rewarding to study and really see it play out,” Rockell Santos, member of the junior team, said.
The two teams will be competing in state competitions, which will be a five-day trip in Corpus Christi. There, they will practice and compete in the Quiz Bowl competition. It's rewarding to see CTE students learn from industry professionals. There are industry professionals from all industries, such as culinary, auto-tech, plumbing, and more.
“The pride that advisers feel when we witness our students working with and competing against other CTE students is extremely rewarding. Tthis experience takes students out of their comfort zone and allows them to build confidence,” Nycole Thompson, the junior team coach, said.
Competing for SkillsUSA will not only benefit them now, but also prepare them for the future. Many of the competitors see themselves having a career in the cosmetic industry and by competing in this competition, they are one step closer to achieving that goal. The students have the opportunity to learn more things about their soon to be future, and it's all thanks to their dedication and drive that got them to where they are now.