• SkillsUSA Makes a Capitol Investment
• Staying Safe at Work Takes Work
• Bored? Try Our Board
• Excellence Has Its Rewards

Nearly 200 SkillsUSA students and teachers from across the nation converged on the capital of the free world for SkillsUSA’s Washington Leadership and Training Institute (WLTI). Four days in September were spent in a blur of frenzied yet focused activity, from touring downtown D.C. to participating in intensive leadership development training.

One of many highlights was a visit to Capitol Hill, where students and chapter advisors visited their state representatives. But this wasn’t just another stop on the sightseeing tour; this was a mission, as SkillsUSA members championed the cause of career and technical education with passionate, well-researched presentations. Congressional representatives were impressed by the eloquence of the SkillsUSA delegations — as if we expected anything less! For photos, visit www.skillsusa.org/wltiphotos.html.

One young person is killed every five days in a work-related accident. It’s a sobering stat — one that’s inspired SkillsUSA to join with CareerSafe. This program offers Web- and classroom-based training modules on the fundamentals of workplace safety, wherever that workplace might be.

Complete the program and you’ll receive a confirmation card from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Prospective employers will know you have what it takes to stay safe, you’ll have yet another edge on the competition and, most importantly, you’ll avoid becoming a tragic statistic. Learn more at www.CareerSafeOnline.com.

You asked and we delivered. SkillsUSA members have a more user-friendly forum for communicating through our website.

Actually, there are three fantastic forums - for students, chapter advisors and alumni members. These new online message boards are easy to find. Just go to www.skillsusa.org and click on the links under “Interact” on the redesigned web page.

Be a silent observer and read the forum threads, or register and take part in the online yak-fest (a much better choice). You can also search for recently discussed topics or send and receive private messages. Got any more great ideas?

DEWALT's new leadership program, “Excellence in Education,” is open to all SkillsUSA students. The program is designed to recognize student leaders and their service to others. Four winners will be chosen from applications received by March 31, and winners will receive some great DEWALT prizes. To get your application or to learn more, send email to Skills.USA@dewalt.com.