NCCER Award Certifications to SkillsUSA Competitors, Recognizing Top Talent in Skilled Trades

SkillsUSA Contact:
Clare Briner
cbriner@skillsusa.org

NCCER Media Contact
Kylie Kinnaman, kkinnaman@nccer.org

LEESBURG, Va. – January 06, 2026 – SkillsUSA, the #1 workforce development organization for students, proudly announces its successful partnership with National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER), the recognized leader in construction workforce development, to award industry-recognized certifications to students who demonstrated exceptional proficiency at the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference (NLSC).

Nearly 250 credentials were awarded as part of the inaugural program. This collaboration marks a significant step in validating the skills of future workforce leaders as part of the SkillsUSA Championships held annually during NLSC. Competitors in Core and Level 1 of their craft who met or exceeded specific performance benchmarks were awarded NCCER’s industry-recognized credentials, providing them with an immediate, tangible advantage as they enter their careers.

“NCCER certifications are the gold standard in construction, and by awarding it directly to our NLSC competitors, we are ensuring they leave the conference with more than just a medal—they leave with a recognized professional qualification,” said Chelle Travis, Executive Director of SkillsUSA. “This partnership is a powerful example of how industry and education can collaborate to close the skills gap.”

The certifications awarded confirm that students have mastered the core knowledge and practical competencies demanded by the industry.

“NCCER is committed to building a safe, productive and sustainable workforce,” said Boyd Worsham, NCCER President and CEO. “Partnering with SkillsUSA allows us to identify and formally recognize the next generation of craft professionals who are ready for the jobsite. These students are now entering the workforce with validated skills that employers actively seek.”

This initiative underscores both organizations’ dedication to producing career-ready graduates and reinforcing the value of career and technical education programs nationwide.

About SkillsUSA

SkillsUSA is the #1 workforce development organization for students, empowering them to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders and responsible community members. SkillsUSA represents more than 444,000 career and technical education students and teachers in middle schools, high schools and college/postsecondary institutions nationwide. Those members represent 130 in-demand occupational areas, from 3-D animation to welding. A vital solution to the skills gap, SkillsUSA has served over 15 million members since its founding in 1965. Learn more at skillsusa.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.

About NCCER

The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit education foundation and the leading provider of construction education for industry and career and technical education programs. With flexible workforce development and learning solutions, NCCER’s programs provide consistency and quality to ensure craft professionals and learners receive industry-recognized credentials and certifications. Follow us on LinkedIn, YouTube, Facebook and Instagram.