SkillsUSA
What is SkillsUSA?
SkillsUSA is a nationwide organization that empowers students to become world-class workers, leaders, and responsible citizens. It bridges the gap between education and industry by providing students with opportunities to develop technical skills, leadership abilities, and real-world experiences through competitions and career-focused programs. SkillsUSA supports a wide variety of technical and engineering disciplines, making it an ideal fit for Arrowhead’s Technology and Engineering Department.
Arrowhead SkillsUSA Chapter
At Arrowhead, SkillsUSA unites all facets of the Technology and Engineering Department, enabling students to collaborate, build leadership skills, and compete in diverse contests that showcase their talents. Similar to organizations like FFA, FBLA, DECA, HOSA, and FCCLA, SkillsUSA allows students to engage in competitions tied to their areas of interest and expertise.
What Competitions Are Offered?
SkillsUSA features more than 80 contest categories spanning technical, trade, and leadership skills. Examples include:
- Welding and Metal Fabrication
- Technical and Architectural Drafting
- Woodworking Display and Cabinetmaking
- 3D Modeling and Precision Machining
- Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair
- Small Engines and Team Engineering
- Job Interview and Customer Service
Students can compete at district, regional, and state levels. Those who place first at the state level advance to the prestigious national competition, where they represent their school and state against the best in the country.
Why Join SkillsUSA?
- Resume Building: Participation in SkillsUSA demonstrates initiative, technical expertise, and leadership—qualities highly valued by employers and colleges. Winning or even competing in contests can set students apart on job applications and scholarship forms.
- Leadership Development: Through monthly group meetings and hands-on workshops, students enhance skills like teamwork, time management, and public speaking.
- Real-World Experience: Contest preparation mirrors industry standards, giving students a taste of professional expectations.
- Networking Opportunities: Students connect with peers, educators, and industry professionals, building relationships that may lead to internships, apprenticeships, and future jobs.
Commitment and Participation
The Arrowhead SkillsUSA chapter holds monthly large-group meetings and offers weekly after-school sessions for contest preparation. Depending on the event, students may meet more frequently with advisors to refine their skills and prepare for competitions.
Joining SkillsUSA is an excellent way for students to explore career pathways, develop technical expertise, and stand out as leaders in their chosen fields.
Who is eligible to be a member?
An eligible member is any student in grades 11-12 who is interested in technology and engineering-related careers. Students must be enrolled in our Arrowhead Technology and Engineering classes, as this club is not meant to circumvent taking these courses. To join, students need to come into the club with some previous knowledge of the content area they want to compete in and a desire to further those skills. To become a member, the student must complete the membership form and pay the required dues. SkillsUSA allows students to further their education by competing against others to showcase their abilities. Ideally, students would join the organization because they are passionate about their coursework and want to develop their skills further. We are looking for students who are driven and take their coursework seriously.
Advisors:
Jeremy Schlitt - schlitt@arrowheadschools.org
Joe Premo - premo@arrowheadschools.org
