Features

Big Skills, Big Brains, Big Futures

This group of five SkillsUSA members and 2021 Presidential Scholars smashes the myth that the skilled trades and academics don’t play nicely together. In fact, as these students exemplify, they’re the best of friends.

Hammering Home the Value of SkillsUSA

Carpentry students appear on a national broadcast to advocate for the skilled trades.

Crowning His Prince

As a culinary arts and hospitality professional, Damien Lopez loves making other people happy. Through his ongoing journey as a transgender man, he’s learned the importance of making himself happy, too.

“Do They Really Take Girls?” — Passing Preconceptions

When an interest in automotive technology led her to consider courses in high school, Noemi Castro wondered if her gender could be an obstacle. It wasn’t. Through SkillsUSA, she quickly found a confidence-igniting spark that’s led to a full-throttle career.

Success is Made from Many Recipes

“Being a chef is the most exciting profession you can be in, because you can create whatever you want out of whatever you have and make it look and taste good. And no one needs to know the difference.” Those insightful words from William Gorham apply as much to life itself as they do to his current “dream job” profession. In fact, at one time, Gorham’s life felt more like a nightmare.

Linked by Ink

A passion for their shared trade area sparked them to tremendous individual success. Now, this Maryland printing duo shares something else: a passion for each other.