ATLANTA, GA – A team of seven students from Calvert County's Career & Technology Academy (CTA) recently demonstrated exceptional skill and professionalism at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference. Competing against nearly 6,000 participants from across the country, the students excelled in various technical and leadership challenges from June 24-28, 2024.
The students earned their places at the national event by securing top honors in the state championships held in April. At the national level, they participated in contests ranging from firefighting and power equipment technology to screen printing and chapter team activities, reflecting a wide spectrum of technical disciplines.
Students at Olympic Park in Atlanta: (L to R): Jessica Cecil, Alyssa Lane, Amy Ontko, Thomas Marshall, Dantae McGowan
1st Pic: Back Row (L to R): Dantae McGowan, Sheala Jefferson, Cody Davenport Front Row (L to
R): Jessica Cecil, Amy Ontko, Alyssa Lane, Thomas Marshall
The conference tested competitors through practical demonstrations, hands-on problem-solving, and interviews. Six CTA students achieved top ten placements in four categories. The contests not only showcased their technical abilities but also emphasized leadership, teamwork, and communication skills critical for career and technical education.
CTA's strong performance was particularly highlighted in the "outstanding chapter" contest, where students demonstrated their year-long commitment to developing professional skills under the guidance of their student officer team. This contest assessed the overall effectiveness of school programs in fostering significant professional growth among students.
Carrie Akins, the principal of the Career and Technology Academy, praised the students for their dedication and performance. "The hard work of each of these dedicated students is truly commendable. The results speak to just how impressive each of these young people are," she commented.
SkillsUSA serves as a pivotal platform for students from middle school through post-secondary education, offering them opportunities to grow as skilled professionals and responsible community leaders. The organization's role in enhancing student development within Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs is well recognized across educational and professional spectrums.
Michelle Miller, CTA's SkillsUSA lead advisor and a Graphic Communications instructor, highlighted the value of the competition. "SkillsUSA Nationals was an invaluable experience filled with professional development and inspiration. It ensures that I can provide relevant and current instruction to my students," she said.
The successful showing at the SkillsUSA Championships not only underscores the students' talents and preparation but also highlights the robust support from school staff, community members, and local businesses, which is crucial for such achievements.
The students recognized for their outstanding performances at the national conference include:
- Cody Davenport: Firefighting – Sixth Place
- Jessica Cecil: Medical Terminology
- Sheala Jefferson, Alyssa Lane, and Amy Ontko: Outstanding Chapter – Fifth Place
- Thomas Marshall: Power Equipment Technology – Eighth Place
- Dantae McGowan: Screen Printing Technology – Seventh Place
This national recognition reaffirms the academy's commitment to excellence in career and technical education, empowering students to achieve success in their respective fields.
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