Executive Update: May 15, 2023
Important Dates
June 17-19: SkillsUSA Leverage, Activate and Engage Training, Atlanta
June 19-23: National Leadership & Skills Conference, Georgia World Congress Center, Atlanta
Aug. 15-18: State Director Association Professional Development and Training Conference, Columbus, Ohio
Sept. 23-27: Washington Leadership Training Institute, Alexandria, Va.
News from a Successful SkillsUSA National Signing Day
On May 4, SkillsUSA celebrated the fourth successful SkillsUSA National Signing Day, working with our chapters nationwide to highlight the value of skilled trades careers. The events recognized career and technical students for their dedication to career readiness and their commitment to their future career plans. Thousands of SkillsUSA schools participated to honor their students. See highlights from events nationwide on our website and look for more coverage on our social media channels very soon!
NLSC Microsite
For full information on SkillsUSA’s upcoming National Leadership & Skills Conference, check out the new nlsc.skillsusa.org microsite. This new site includes airline discounts, conference schedules, event information, maps, parking details, safety and security resources, local attractions and more.
Harbor Freight Tools for Schools Travel Scholarships Available
In partnership with Harbor Freight Tools for Schools, SkillsUSA has a $1,500-per-student travel scholarship opportunity for high school members in selected trades who are competing in the 2023 SkillsUSA Championships. Applications will be accepted through May 22. Recipients will be announced on May 25.
Seeking State Input on Work-Based Learning Initiatives
As we continue to grow as an organization, SkillsUSA has a unique opportunity to leverage our position within education and industry to lead innovative strategies to connect members and stakeholders through expanded work-based learning initiatives. State SkillsUSA directors are invited to be part of this strategic growth through direct input from your unique perspectives. We want to learn what is working in your state and communities, as well as where you want more success in your own work-based learning initiatives. We believe SkillsUSA can serve as a catalyst for expanding work-based learning experiences within local chapters and at a national level. For questions, email Pamela Sieffert, or set up a one-on-one discussion time with her.
State Director Crisis Contacts for NLSC
Each year, SkillsUSA confirms cellphone numbers for state directors and their key team members to be used in case of emergency during the national conference. We would also like one or two other names and phone numbers of those who can serve as onsite crisis contacts for your state. If you cannot be reached in the event of an emergency at NLSC, we will call the next person on your list. Be sure to keep your phone charged and on in Atlanta so you can be reached if the need arises. Please email your crisis contacts to Jane Short by June 1.
Got Story-Worthy Champions?
At the national conference, the staff of SkillsUSA Champions digital magazine will be on the lookout for interview subjects. If you know of a SkillsUSA student, advisor, industry representative or alum who will be at national conference and whose story would be motivating and inspirational, please email SkillsUSA’s director of communications Tom Kercheval. A member of the communications team will then reach out to set up a specific time during conference week to meet these individuals. You are also invited to stop by the Media Room in GWCC B-204 anytime on Monday, June 19, through Thursday, June 22, to share story ideas and contacts. Our SkillsUSA communications team looks forward to meeting your champions!
NLSC 2023 Courtesy Corps Member Nominations Close Soon
SkillsUSA needs 120 or more National Courtesy Corps (NCC) members to support the 2023 National Leadership & Skills Conference (NLSC). This much-appreciated group supports the technical committees and the overall conference experience, and it’s a great way for advisors or students to attend NLSC, network with industry partners and meet other SkillsUSA members from across the nation. NCC members receive free registration, housing, local transportation, meals and entertainment. NCC participants are housed at the Georgia Tech Woodruff North Residence Hall in Atlanta. For eligibility requirements, visit the National Courtesy Corps web page. For questions, contact Tracy Whitehead. The deadline for nominations is May 16. State directors will receive a list of their state applicants to approve on May 18.
WLTI: Save the Date
Save the date for this year’s Washington Leadership Training Institute (WLTI), which will be held Sept. 23-27. This life-changing experience is open to all SkillsUSA members.
State Director Position Update
Here is the latest update in state SkillsUSA director positions. The SkillsUSA website is kept current with the latest information.
- In Wisconsin, the interim state director is now Sara Baird (Baird@dpi.wi.gov), replacing Jessa Dahmes.
- In Texas, Crystal Latham-Alford will now serve as the state director for both high school and college/postsecondary Texas associations.
- In New Mexico, the interim state director is now Janel Sanchez (info@skillsusanm.org). Natalie Donnelly will continue to be the point person for this year’s NLSC registration and hotel registration.
