Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) students earned top honors at the SkillsUSA regional competition, a national workforce development event aimed at preparing students for careers in technical and skilled fields.
The competition, held at Thomas Edison High School of Technology in Silver Spring on Feb. 13, featured dozens of students who had advanced from local contests. MCPS students dominated, securing first, second, and third place in nine of the 10 categories.
Participants from both MCPS and Prince George’s County Public Schools showcased their skills in areas such as carpentry, automotive maintenance, IT services, and architecture. Judges evaluated students across various competencies.
Jack Hoefling, a senior at Edison who placed second in Automotive Maintenance and Light Repair, emphasized the benefits of competing in front of industry professionals.
“The people that come and judge me are people that run dealerships as managers and foremen, and you want to leave a good impression on them,” he said. “Competitions like this can really help your future, and help with scholarships.”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h14TpciVQkI
Susie Masi, a senior in Edison’s Academy of Health Professions, said SkillsUSA has helped her prepare for a career in nursing.
“Being in the Academy of Health Professions and participating in SkillsUSA has helped me build on these skills and learn a little bit more about my pathway,” she said.
The winners will compete at the state level in March.
For more highlights, visit the event’s photo gallery.
Photo courtesy: MCPS
