Oklahoma’s team of young professionals participated in the 60th National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta, Georgia. According to a statement from Oklahoma CareerTech, their SkillsUSA students earned 39 gold medals, making them the top gold medal recipients nationwide. The team also placed third overall with a total of 66 medals.
Within this group of achievers, Moore Norman Technology Center secured first place in the Community Service category for the postsecondary division, while Memphis Hixson from Canadian Valley Technology Center was elected as a national officer for SkillsUSA in the postsecondary division for the upcoming year. These individual successes underscore the overall achievements of the Oklahoma delegation. Kendra Alcala, state SkillsUSA adviser with Oklahoma CareerTech, expressed her pride in the delegation’s performance, stating, "This outstanding accomplishment reflects the world-class preparation and determination of Oklahoma’s career and technology education students," as per the press release.
In addition to the medalists, 145 Oklahoma students received Skill Point Certificates, which recognize proficiency and workplace readiness in their chosen occupational fields. Kendra Alcala noted the connection between students, education, and industry, and acknowledged the commitment of the SkillsUSA Oklahoma students and instructors.
Oklahoma’s success at the conference reflects the state’s emphasis on career and technology education, demonstrated through its participation in SkillsUSA. This organization is one of seven CareerTech student groups connected to trade and industrial education, including Family, Career and Community Leaders of America, FFA, DECA, HOSA, Business Professionals of America, and the Technology Student Association. Kendra Alcala acknowledged the competitors, advisers, and supporters who contributed to the national achievement.
