Hundreds of high school and college students showed off their skills in the trades during the annual Colorado SkillsUSA conference, hosted at Pueblo Community College (PCC) earlier this month. The organization is one of eight Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) in the state that provides professional development opportunities for students enrolled in Career and Technical Education programs.  

Throughout the three-day event, students competed against peers in categories as diverse as video news production, crime scene investigation, and mobile robotics. Working professionals from across the state judge the competitions and give real-time feedback to students.  

“It is amazing to watch all of my friends compete and showcase their skills for all the industry judges,” said Jack Adams, a student at the Cherry Creek Innovation Campus. “SkillsUSA is a place where we can share not only our technical skills, but our leadership as well.”  

Dr. Patty Erjavec, president of PCC, said her college was thrilled to welcome the SkillsUSA students and praised their effort and ability.  

“It was great to see so many young men and women coming together to demonstrate not only the competencies and skills required to advance into a viable career, but the leadership and poise that accompany a well-rounded employee,” she said. “I was so impressed with these students and so proud of their teachers, advisors and the judges—all of whom took tremendous time to nurture the best in each of the competitors.” 

 To see SkillsUSA students in action, check out the gallery below! 

SkillsUSA Photo Gallery by CCCS Public & Legislative Affairs