The Skills USA group took some bounding strides in the 2014-15 year. They sent a group to nationals who then placed second in the nation. That’s a pretty exciting accomplishment for small town Nebraska; sadly though more than half of the students at HHS don’t even know what Skills USA is.
Skills sponsor Adam Skrdla (Skud-ler) says, “The group is a good way to prepare students for the workplace.”
For a textbook definition, SkillsUSA lists its mission statement as the following, “To help its members to become world class workers and responsible American citizens.”
“Skills USA helps give kids leadership and skill aspects that lead to well-rounded adults. It can also help give them that job they never even dreamed of,” Skrdla says.
SkillsUSA for most kids is a one-shot opportunity. They will participate in the meetings and activities year round until the state competition in April. These state competitions range from culinary arts to web design and TV production.
“Anything that has a job that requires a skill can become a competition,” Skrdla said.
The HHS Skills group has been at the high school for just five short years. Over that time it’s grown tremendously and sparked interest in kids’ minds all across Nebraska. The 2016 year is gearing up to be a successful one at HHS with 70+ kids itching to win, compared to just 42 last year.
“Anyone can join Skills at anytime, up to one month prior to the state competition. It only requires two meetings every month,” Skills Vice President April Harrison said.
The more kids that go to state this year the better chances we have at bringing home another national medal. With 30 more kids out this year than last that means about a 50 percent greater chance to place. All these number mean nothing though if you can’t put them into play.
“This year we really just want to give the kids an opportunity they normally wouldn’t have, if they bring home a national medal in the process then even better,” Skrdla said.
Skrdla says more kids are always welcome if they are interested in Skills and hopes more commit. It can make all the difference between the kids that are successful and the ones that aren’t. Students who have any questions are welcome to talk to Mr. Skrdla in room 105.
SkillsUSA Wants You.
