Competition Descriptions

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There are so many amazing competitions available to our student members, many of which are not program or career-cluster-specific. Below are general descriptions of each competition offered at the State Leadership and Skills Conference. It is also recommended that you view the following resources to help decide which competitions are available to your students or best suit their skills. Keep in mind that there are typically over a dozen competitions available to each student to choose from, no matter the program they are enrolled in.

Additional Resources:

Notes:

Non-Program or Non-Career-Cluster-Specific competitions are those that any student can enter. They will potentially compete against students from across multiple programs or career clusters.
Some competitions require that the student competitor be classified under the provisions of Public Law 105-17, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 1997. Those will be noted in their description.
Students may compete in a STATE ONLY and a non-state-only competition at this year's State Leadership and Skills Conference. It must fit with their schedule, however. In the case that it will not, they will be required to compete in the non-state-only competition, unless the Advisor decides otherwise. All conflicts or potential conflicts will be communicated to the Advisor.

3D Visualization and Animation

This competition requires a team of two student members to produce high quality images and an animated short subject using computer-generated 3D images. Students are evaluated on their technical knowledge, production skills, and creative abilities, including visual development and storyboarding.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2.

Action Skills (includes Middle School)

This competition requires a five-to seven-minute demonstration of an occupational skill in an area in which a student is training. Competitors use examples, experiments, displays or practical operations to clearly explain their skills using competitor-prepared visual aids.

This event is open to all three levels (middle school, high school, and college/post-secondary.

In this event, students compete individually. If a model is needed for the purposes of a competitor's demonstration, they must provide their own student models. This competition is only open to students classified under the provisions of Public Law 105-17, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 1997.

Additive Manufacturing

Additive manufacturing, also know as 3D Printing, embraces a wide range of materials and derivative processes to build parts suitable for end-use service. The virtually unlimited design freedom enabled by additive manufacturing allows the creation of shapes and the integration of feature and function that previously required sub-assemblies.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2.

Advertising Design

This competition tests technical skills and creative aptitude as though competitors worked for an ad agency. Competitors will recreate a provided advertisement on the computer. They are judged on their accuracy, proficiency with industry software and ability to meet a deadline. Competitors also complete a creative portion, which involves the application of creative thinking and a design challenge. Layout, drawing and illustration skills are used, as well as the ability to create vibrant, effective designs using the computer.

Contestants compete individually in this event.

American Spirit (includes Middle School)

This is a professional portfolio competition documenting a SkillsUSA chapter's community service, patriotism and citizenship, and promotion of career and technical education projects that demonstrate a belief in the American way of life and the purposes of SkillsUSA.

In this event, students compete as a team of 3. This competition is open to Middle School students in addition to Secondary (High School) and Post-Secondary (College) students.

Architectural Drafting

Competitors will use their drafting skills to solve an architectural problem. The problem may include a hand sketch and/or drawings that are either computer-generated or board drafted. This is mean to test the competitors' problem-solving abilities along with their CAD skills.

Competitors compete individually in this event.

Audio-Radio Production

Students will produce (plan, write, voice, record, edit and render) up to a three-minute radio production such as a PSA, sound rich/NPR style news story or a sound and interview news story. A 60-second streaming radio infomercial and 30-second ad spot will be produced and inserted into the production. The complete production requires students to demonstrate their ability to plan a project that meets a specific prompt and run time; and to gather, edit and mix a variety of audio sources. This must be rendered in a specified audio file format.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2.

Automated Manufacturing Technology

The competition evaluates teams in the integrated manufacturing technology fields of computer aided drafting/design (CAD), computer aided manufacturing (CAM), and computer numerical controlled machining (CNC). CAD operators construct the part geometry; the CAM operator generates the tool paths; and the CNC operator sets up and machines the part.

In this event, students compete as a team of 3.

Automotive Maintenance & Light Repair (MLR) - (High School Only)

This competition is consistent with the automotive maintenance and light repair task list outlined in guidelines published by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the ASE Education foundation. Competitors demonstrate their ability to perform jobs and/or skills selected from the contest standards.

In this event, students compete as individuals. This competition is ONLY open to Secondary students (High School).

Automotive Refinishing Technology

Competitors demonstrate the ability to perform skills based on the task list outlined by the National Institute for Automotive Excellence (ASE) and the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). The competition includes a series of workstations to assess skills in surface preparation, spray gun operation, paint mixing, matching and applying, solving paint application problems, determining finish defects with an understanding of causes and cures, masking, and utilizing safety precautions. Competitors may also complete an interview and an ASE written exam.

In this event, students compete as individuals.

Automotive Service Technology (College / Post-Secondary Only)

This competition is consistent with the automobile technician task list outlined in guidelines published by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the ASE Education Foundation. Competitors demonstrate their ability to perform jobs and/or skills selected from the contest standards.

In this event, students compete as individuals. This competition is ONLY open to Post-Secondary students (College).

Aviation Maintenance Technology

Competitors perform tasks that represent the types of maintenance they will be exposed to in the aircraft industry. The competition scope is consistent with the general, airframe, and powerplant maintenance technician certification guide published by the Federal Aviation Administration.

In this event, students compete individually.

Baking and Pastry Arts

Competitors are challenged to meet production and quality standards expected by industry. Competitors demonstrate their knowledge and skill through scaling, mixing, preparing and baking up to eight products. The products include breads, rolls, cookies, and assorted pastries. The student must demonstrate their cake decorating skills and work efficiently to produce quality products in a job-like setting.

In this event, students compete as individuals.

Barbering

This competition is defined by industry standards as identified by the barbering technical committee and the National Barbering Association. The competition is divided into four separate skill performance tasks including haircutting, hair styling, hair color, beard design and coloring. Creativity is assessed in the creative cut and beard design, while haircutting is evaluated in the recreation of men's haircuts from a photograph or other provided material.

In this event, students compete as individuals. Competitors must provide their own student models.

Basic Health Care Skills (High School only)

Competitors demonstrate their knowledge and ability to perform entry-level procedures or skills based on the following list of core standards: academic foundations, communication skills, career opportunity concepts and systems, employability and teamworking, ethical and legal issues, and safety practices. Performance will be evaluated through various stations involving skills testing and both written and verbal assessments.

In this event, students compete individually. This competition is for High School students only.

Biotechnology Knowledge Bowl (High School only) - (STATE ONLY)

Competitors work on a team of 4 students and will be tested on their collective knowledge within the biotechnology field. Teams will be judged on accuracy of answering questions in categories including molecular and cell biology, microbiology, data analysis, biomanufacturing, instrumentations use, regulatory affairs, bioethics, employability skills, safety practices, biotechnology current events, communication and teamwork.

In this event, students compete as a team of 4. This competition is for High School students only.

Building Maintenance

Competitors demonstrate competencies related to the building maintenance trade. These areas may include, but are not limited to, carpet care, office and restroom cleaning, floor care and liquid measurement.

Contestants compete individually in this event. This competition is only open to students classified under the provisions of Public Law 105-17, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 1997.

Chapter Display

Cabinetmaking

Competitors build a small cabinet or piece of furniture from the supplied materials and draws or model. Competitors are expected to read drawing or use a model, lay out, create a cut list, and cut the parts using a variety of tools including, but not limited to, the following: table saw, miter saw, drill, hinge boring machine, and various hand tools. The parts must be accurately assembled, sanded, and adjusted to tolerances specified by the judges.

In this event, students compete individually.

Career Pathways Showcase (6 separate competitions based on career)

Students use their course of study as the basis of a project that will benefit their class, school, community or industry. The project must highlight an aspect of their career cluster training. Upon completion of the project, the students will develop a display and use it within the community to explain their training and project. This competition will judge mastery of their training, its application, the project's benefit to their community , and display and presentation techniques.

There are six separate competitions under Career Pathways Showcase, each representing a different career cluster. They each follow the same technical standards and separate medalists are rewarded based on the career cluster.

The six competition career clusters are:

Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources
Arts and Communication
Business, Management and Technology
Health Services
Human Services
Industrial and Engineering Technology

A breakdown of what programs fall under each cluster can be found in the technical standards. All programs should fall within one of these clusters.

In this event, students compete as a team of 3.

Carpentry

Competitors will be judged in a variety of skills that may include: frame walls using wood and/or steel studs, cut and install rafters, gable end overhangs, fascia board and soffit installation, install sheathing and/or exterior siding and trim. Demonstration of knowledge of stair constructions is required. Competitors will be judged on accuracy, ability to read and interpret blueprints, workmanship, safety and the proper use of tools, equipment and materials.

In this event, students compete individually.

CERT / Community Emergency Response Team (STATE ONLY)

Competitors will have an opportunity to demonstrate knowledge and skills they will need to respond to their community's immediate needs in the aftermath of a disaster, when emergency services are not immediately available. The skills will come from CERT training materials. Areas include emergency medical skills, victim carries, cribbing, building evaluation, fire extinguisher use, search and rescue, utility controls, and other skills taught in CERT training.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2.

Chapter Business Procedure

Students demonstrate knowledge of parliamentary procedure in both written and team demonstration. The written test covers questions related to materials found in Robert's Rules of Order - Newly Revised. During the demonstration, the team will run a typical business meeting using a standard order of business. The team must properly insert into the order of business the secretary's minutes, treasurer's reports and business items identified by the technical committee. In addition to the debate and transaction of the business items, teams will also properly demonstrate at least six different parliamentary procedure motions, including at least one of each of the following: main, privileged, subsidiary, incidental and motions that bring back issues to the floor. Minutes of the demonstration will be read by the secretary upon completion of the demonstration. The competitors do NOT have to be current chapter officers or student leaders. If they are currently an officer or student leader, they do NOT have to participate in the role/position that they actually hold within their chapter.

In this event, students compete as a team of 6.

Chapter Display (includes Middle School)

SkillsUSA student members build a three-dimensional display that articulates the annual SkillsUSA National theme. The members of the chapter build the display and three students present information about the display during a presentation and interview with judges.

In this event, students compete as a team of 3. This competition is open to all three levels (Middle School, High School, and College / Post-Secondary).

CNC 2-Axis Turning Programmer

This competition evaluates each competitor's ability to independently plan and program jobs for CNC (Computer Numerical Control) turning centers and provide instructions for operators to execute. Competitors program part features and generate NC code using CAM software, troubleshoot G-code programming errors, interpret prints (including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing or GD&T), measure/gauge parts, and/or demonstrate their theoretical knowledge of CNC turning center configuration, setup, and operation. This competition no longer uses physical simulators.

In this event, students compete individually.

CNC 3-Axis Milling Programmer

This competition evaluates each competitor's ability to independently plan and program jobs for CNC (Computer Numerical Control) milling machines and provide instructions for operators to execute. Competitors program part features and generate NC code using CAM software, troubleshoot G-code programming errors, interpret prints (including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing or GD&T), measure/gauge parts, and demonstrate their theoretical knowledge of CNC milling machine configuration, setup, and operation. This competition no longer uses physical simulators.

In this event, students compete individually.

CNC 5-Axis Milling Programmer

This competition evaluates each competitor's ability to independently plan and program jobs for 5-Axis CNC (Computer Numerical Control) milling machines and provide instructions for operators to execute. Competitors program part features and generate NC code using CAM software, troubleshoot G-code programming errors, interpret prints (including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing or GD&T), measure/gauge parts, and demonstrate their theoretical knowledge of 5-Axis CNC milling machine configuration, setup, and operation. This competition no longer uses physical simulators.

In this event, students compete individually.

CNC Programmer

This competition evaluates each competitor's ability to independently plan and program jobs for 2-Asix CNC (Computer Numerical Control) turning centers and 3-Axis CNC milling machines and provide instructions for operators to execute. Competitors program part features and generate NC code using CAM software, troubleshoot G-code programming errors, interpret prints (including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing or GD&T), measure/gauge parts, and demonstrate their theoretical knowledge of CNC turning center and milling machine configuration, setup, and operation. This competition no longer uses physical simulators.

In this event, students compete individually.

Collision Damage Appraisal

This competition is consistent with expectations and competencies associated with collision repair center estimators (Blue Printers), insurance auto claim appraisers/adjusters and independent appraisers. Competitors demonstrate their ability to perform jobs and skills based on and may include, but not limited to, virtual appraisals, computerized estimating specific to frontal damage, unibody damage, light mechanical damage, rear damage including quarter panel replacement and total loss evaluations. The overall accuracy and quality of the finished products, efficiency and communication are used in the judging process.

In this event, students compete individually.

Collision Repair Technology

Competitors demonstrate their ability to perform jobs and skills based on the task list outlined by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the ASE Education Foundation. The competition includes a series of workstations to assess skills that may include the following areas: metal straightening, attachment methods, plastic repair and structural analysis. The overall appearance of the finished product, speed and proper safety practices are judged.

In this event, students compete individually.

Commercial Roofing

Competitors will install the most commonly used roof type, thermoplastic, on the same mockup used for NRCA's ProCertification exam. Participants will put on all required safety equipment, roll out a sheet of thermoplastic membrane, mechanically attach it to the deck, flash the perimeter edge wall, and flash around a box and pip boot.

In this event, students compete individually.

Commercial sUAS Drone (includes Middle School)

This competition is designed to evaluate team members' skills and preparation for employment in multiple career fields related to the safe and efficient use of drone technology in the National Airspace System and to recognize outstanding performance by participants in real-world scenario-based situations.

In this event, students compete as a Team of 2. This competition is open to Middles School, Secondary (High School), and Post-Secondary (College). For the Middle School level, this is a State Only competition. For Secondary (High School) and Post-Secondary (College), this is both a state and national competition.

Community Action Project (includes Middle School)

Competitors develop, execute, document and present a completed community service project that provides a benefit to the community or the school and demonstrates excellence and professionalism. The project may be a larger school/community project, however, the team of two students must be part of the core organization team and document the project and results based on the guidelines in the standards.

This competition includes all three levels (Middle School, High School, and College / Post-Secondary).

In this event, students compete as a Team of 2. This competition is only open to students classified under the provisions of Public Law 105-17, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 1997.

Community Service (includes Middle School)

The competition evaluates local chapter activities that benefit the communities while becoming productive community members. SkillsUSA chapters present their best community service project for the year. Competitors are evaluated on a professional portfolio that details their chapter's community service project and on a presentation to a panel of judges. The contestants are evaluated on their professionalism in the visual representation of the project, designing and implementing an engaging presentation, and effective delivery of that presentation.

This competition includes all three levels (Middle School, High School, and College / Post-Secondary).

In this event, students compete as a Team of 3.

Computer Programming

Competitors demonstrate knowledge of computer programming, describe how programs and programming languages work, and describe the purposes and practices of structured programming. The competition may include a computer programming problem consisting of background information and program specifications. An appropriate (successfully executable) computer program from design notes and instructions will be developed.

In this event, students compete individually.

Cosmetology

Students demonstrate their skills in hair color, haircutting, hair styling and long hair design in four separate test. All work is performed on mannequins, so everyone beings with the same model and the same type of hair. Competitors will perform one woman's cut and one man's cut from a finished photo. They will also create one uniform layered haircut. A display of creativity is seen in the long hair segment of the competition where competitors demonstrate their own design skills.

In this event, students compete individually.

Crime Scene Investigation

Contestants will demonstrate basic skills associated with working a crime scene. Teams will process a crime scene to include searching, identifying evidence, measuring, photographing, and preparing a sketch. Team members will also demonstrate basic crime scene skills such as lifting a fingerprint, swabbing serological evidence, packaging evidence or similar skills. The team may also have to interpret common crime scene evidence such as classifying a fingerprint pattern. Report narratives, crime logs and similar paperwork may also be required.

In this event, students compete as a team of 3.

Criminal Justice

This competition is designed for students preparing to be police officers or to work in other areas of criminal justice. Competitors are evaluated on their abilities and knowledge of the field. They will be scored on their knowledge and application of U.S. Constitutional Law, written and verbal communication skills, and their ability to handle an entry-level law enforcement position. Contestants will participate in multiple practical scenarios, evaluate specific situations and articulate reasoning for their decisions.

In this event, students compete individually.

Criminal Justice Quiz Bowl (Middle School & High School only) - (STATE ONLY)

This competition tests a team of three to five competitors on their ability to quickly respond to knowledge questions covering criminal justice related material, U.S. Supreme Court decisions, current events, and SkillsUSA professional development curriculum. Materials to study are found within the technical standards. Teams will demonstrate communication skills, teamwork, problem solving and time-management skills by determining the answer to each questions clearly within the allotted time.

In this event, students compete in teams of 3 to 5. This contest is open to Middle School and Secondary (High School) only.

Culinary Arts

The competition will encompass both hot and cold food preparation and presentation. Competitors will demonstrate their knoledge and skills through the production of menu items meeting industry standards. The competitors are evaluated on organization, knife skills, cooking techniques, creative presentation, sanitation and food safety, and the quality and flavor of their prepared items. At the state level, menus are provided in advance of competition.

In this event, students compete individually.

Customer Service

The competition evaluates students' proficiency in providing customer service. The competition involves live, role-playing situations. Competitors demonstrate their ability to perform customer service in both written and oral forms including telephone and computer skills, communications, problem solving, conflict resolution and business etiquette.

In this event, students compete individually.

Cyber Security

This competition is open to students enrolled in programs with Cyber Security, Information Security, or Systems and Networking Security Architecture as a part of the curriculum. Students will be tested on the elements of the NIST Publication 800-181 Cybersecurity Workforce Framework categories including Securely Provision, Operate and Maintain, and Protect and Defend.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2.

Dental Assisting

Competitors demonstrate procedures specified in the accreditation standards of Dental Assisting Education Programs of the Commission on Dental Accreditation. Skill performance may include one or more: chair-side assisting, preparation of dental materials, infection control and emergency, laboratory and office procedures. Skills evaluated may include administrative, clinical or laboratory dental areas.

In this event, students compete individually.

Diesel Equipment Technology

Competitors cycle through various stations testing and troubleshooting engines, electrical and electronics systems, powertrain systms including chassis, transmissions and carriers. Competitors demonstrate skills in hydraulic systms, vehicle inspections, fundamental failure analysis, brake systems, air-conditioning systems and general shop skills.

In this event, students compete individually.

Digital Cinema Production

This competition evaluates and recognizes outstanding students for excellene and professionlism with their filmmaking skills in the areas of development, pre-production, production and postproduction through the writing, producing, directing and editing of an up to five-minute short film based on the prompt given.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2.

Early Childhood Education

Competitors demonstrate their knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice and their ability to prepare and implement learning activities for children three to five years old. Competitors will prepare a written lesson plan. They will also demonstrate their understanding of the unique age-related learning characteristics of young children and the relevant social interactions as they implement the lesson.

In this event, students compete individually.

Electrical Construction Wiring

Working from drawings and specification sheets, competitors are required to install an electrical system common in most residential and light commercial projects. They may also have to perform a practical conduit bending exercise, hands-on installation of a conduit system, cabling sysem and wiring devices. Judging is based on general workmanship, accuracy of layout and installation, and adherence to the current National Electric Code (NEC) and standard industry safe practices.

In this event, students compete individually.

Electronics Technology

This competition is divided into sections: customer service exam, written exam, soldering, breadboarding, and troubleshooting. Competitors demonstrate their knowledge of analog and digital circuitry; ability to troubleshoot electronic circuits; ability to construct and test experimental circuits; and ability to design and select circuit components. All aspects of the competition test competitors' abilities to use and calibrate electronic equipment, record and organize data, and demonstrate proper safety practices.

In this event, students compete individually.

Emergency Medical Technician

This competition will evaluate the competitors' ability to perform as an Emergency Medical Technician with the National Registry Patient Assessment Technical Scope of Practice Standards (TSOPS) as defined by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA, 2007, p.24), the most current American Heart Association CPR/ECC guidelines, and the AAOS Emergency Care and Transportation of the Sick and Injured 11th Ed. The event will consist of three rounds or stations of competition.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2.

Employment Application Process

Competitors are tested in their readiness in applying for employment and their understanding of the process. The competition includes completing an application and interviewing with the judges. Their resume and portfolio are used during their interviews.

In this event, students compete individually. This competition is only open to students classified under the provisions of Public Law 105-17, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 1997.

Engineering Technology Design

Students demonstrate their ability to design an innovative engineering project and present those ideas along with a display and live model. During the presentation, students are judged on their performance as a professional team, presentation of their project to a panel of judges from the engineering field, their story board presentation model, and the overall effect of the presentation.

In this event, students compete as a team of 3.

Entrepreneurship

Competing teams are tested on their knowledge of starting their own businesses by developing business plans that identify needed products or services in a local market. Emphasis is placed on financial planning and practicality of product/service. Teams give oral presentations based upon their written plans and the team must successfully answer questions by the judge(s) in response to typical problems encountered by entrepreneurs during their first year of business.

In this event, students compete as a team of 4.

ESports (includes Middle School) - 3 Separate Competitions - (STATE ONLY)

ESports is broken up into 3 separate competitions:

1) ESports - Cyber Security (Team of 2)

2) ESports - Video Game Design & Development (Team of 2)

3) ESports - Rocket League (Team of 3)

Each of the three competitions challenge students to showcase their skills in a gaming style environment instead of the typical skill related competition that strictly sticks to certain curriculum standards. While these competitions may have similar names to some national level competitions, these are different in what they are using to assess the competitor's abilities.

These are State Only competitions with competitors operated on a team of 2 or 3, depending on the competition.

Esthetics

Competitors are evaluated on their techniques and professionalism in the field of skin care. They are tested in four technical skill performance tasks consisting of a facial cleansing massage; basic facial; beauty makeup; and fantasy makeup applications. They also may have to provide an oral professional presentation. An emphasis on safety and infection control measures will be used in all segments of the skill performance areas.

In this event, students compete individually. Competitors must provide their own student models.

Extemporaneous Speaking (includes Middle School)

This competition requires competitors to give a three-to-five-minute speech on an assigned topic with five minutes of advance preparation. Competitors enter the preparation area, one at a time, where they are given a speech topic. They are judged on voice, mechanics, platform deportment, organization and effectiveness.

In this event, students compete individually. This competition is open to Middle School students in addition to Secondary (High School) and Post-Secondary (College) students.

Facilithon: Leadership in Facility Management

Competitors will complete a 15-minute role-play scenario and a 5-minute emergency challenge. They are assessed on their critical problem-solving skills, ability to quickly execute the best response to challenges and ability to accurately digest complex situations and convey related solutions related to the field of facility management. Additional scenarios/challenges may be utilized to assess the competitor.

In this event, students compete individually.

Firefighting

This competition evaluates the competitors preparation for firefighting careers through hands-on skill demonstrations and both written and oral presentations. Areas tested may include safety; breathing apparatus; fire streams; laddres, ropes, knots, and hoses; fire control; ventilation; emergency medical care and rescue; and protecting fire cause evidence.

In this event, students compete individually.

First Aid - CPR

This competition assesses the student's ability to perform procedures or take apprpriate action based on scenarios presented related to CPR (Adult/AED, 2-man system, child and infant CPR) first aid medical emergencies. All skills are judged on nationally accepted standards identified by The American Red Cross, The American Heart Association, The American Safety and Health Institute and The National Safety Council.

In this event, students compete individually.

Graphic Communication

This competition consists of preparing a job and printing it with a digital printing device, creating and preflighting a print-ready file using Adobe software, performing exercises with offset press simulator software, solving production planning challenges, and taking a graphic arts knowledge test.

In this event, students compete individually.

Graphic Imaging Sublimation

Contestants are tested on their ability to design, print and transfer, and understand the dye sublimation process to decorate various materials, which may include drinkware, mouse pads, license plates, t-shirts, cutting boards, ceramic tiles, slates and more.

In this event, students compete individually.

Hair Braiding - Fantasy (STATE ONLY)

This competition evaluates a competitor's ability to perform in the field of Hair Braiding. For this version of the Hair Braiding contest, a theme is assigned in advance of competition. Competitors are then provided an allotted amount of time to complete their hair braiding project. Judge(s) assess each competitor's ability to properly prepare, maintain sanitation, use time-management skills, their creativity, overall quality of work, and more. The theme for the contest will be used to guide the competitor in creating their project. The theme is provided on the state contest updates page.

In this event, students compete individually. Competitors must provide their own student models.

Hair Braiding - Natural (STATE ONLY)

This competition evaluates a competitor's ability to perform in the field of Hair Braiding. For this version of the Hair Braiding contest, a project is assigned to the competitors. Competitors are then provided an allotted amount of time to complete their hair braiding project. Judge(s) assess each competitor's ability to properly prepare, maintain sanitation, use time-management skills, their creativity, overall quality of work, and more.

In this event, students compete individually. Competitors must provide their own student models.

Health Knowledge Bowl

The competition tests teams of students on their collective knowledge within the healthcare system. Teams are judged on accuracy of answering questions in a variety of categories including anatomy and physiology; medical terminology; healthcare procedures; healthcare systems; employability skills; legal responsibility; ethics; safety practices; current events related to healthcare; communication and teamwork.

In this event, students compete on a team of 4.

Health Occupations Professional Portfolio

This competition recognizes students for their successful development of a professional portfolio. The competition evaluates the ability of the students to present themselves to a prospective employer. The competitors show the use of the portfolio and use effective communication skills in presenting. The competition consists of two parts: a professional portfolio and a live presentation by the competitor.

In this event, students compete individually.

Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (HVACR)

This competition includes a series of testing stations designed to assess skills identified by industry HVACR standards. Industry equipment used during the workstations portion of the competition may include, but is not limited to, ice machines, refrigerated display cases, small package HVAC units, furnaces and split-system air conditioning and/or heat pump units and geothermal units.

In this event, students compete individually.

Heavy Equipment Operator

This competition will evaluate each contestant's preparation for employment and recognize outstanding students for excellence and professionalism in the field of Heavy Equipment Operation. Students are assessed on their knowledge of equipment operations, day to day maintenance and activities (such as surveying and blueprint reading) on various machines in different applications.

In this event, students compete individually.

Horticulture/Landscaping (STATE ONLY)

This competition will evaluate each contestant's preparation for employment and recognize outstanding students for excellence and professionalism in the field of landscape horticulture. The contest involves identification of live plant specimens, interpretation and evaluation of client space and needs, development of a landscape design within a given budget, and presentation to the client.

In this event, students compete individually.

Industrial Motor Control

Students demonstrate their knowledge of electrical principles, equipment, and industry codes and standards as it relates to the design and installation of motor control systems. Students demonstrate their skills and abilities in applying that knowledge by properly installing motor control equipment and associated enclosures, raceways, pilot devices, and circuitry in accordance with accepted industry practice and National Electric Code requirements.

In this event, students compete individually.

Information Technology Services

Competitors work through modules designed to test their knowledge as an IT service professional. The contest may require competitors to correct end-user computing issues, configure and secure networks, manage virtual machines, navigate and modify operating system internals, deploy operating systems, leverage troubleshooting software and tools, identify virus and malware origins, work with mobile devices, and proficiently use command line interface. Operating system is Windows. Additionally, competitors are evaluated on their interpersonal skills (such as communication, teamwork and honesty).

In this event, students compete individually.

Interactive Application & Video Game Development

This competition tests the technical knowledge and production skills, which may include: critical thinking, creative problem solving, teamwork, interpersonal and visual communication, artistic design and technical programming. Teams must produce an original prototype or sample of an interactive application or video game with at least one level and ten minutes of interactive content. It must be created during the school year of the state conference.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2.

Internet of Things - Smart Home

The competition tests each competitor's preparation for employment and recognizes outstanding students for excellence and professionalism in the field of home technology integration. The competitors will complete both a written test and hands on demonstration of the installation of "smart home" residential products including bulbs; thermostats; locks; alarms; sensors; cameras; speakers; home theater systems; computer networking; and video security equipment. Construction of the various interconnecting cables such as a cat 6/networking cables, coax cables and low and high voltage residential wiring will also be necessary. The competition will challenge competitors to configure and secure networks, update firmware/software and configure operating system settings. Troubleshooting skills will also be tested. Finally, the competition requires a demonstration of all hardware software set up, completed in an easy-to-understand manner fit for the typical customer.

In this event, students compete individually.

Internetworking

This competition focuses on testing the networking knowledge and hands-on ability of the competitors. The hands-on component may require the contestant to demonstrate their abilities to make cables, troubleshoot network systems, configure routers, switches and servers, and to deliver customer service in a technical assistant center environment. The competitors will find errors in WAN and LAN networks; do a full network configuration using routers, switches, and servers; talk a technician through an error they are having on their network.

In this event, students compete individually.

Job Interview

This competition is divided into three phases: completion of employment applications; preliminary interview(s) with a receptionist; and in-depth interview(s). Competitors are evaluated on their understanding of employment procedures faced in applying for positions in the occupational areas in which they are training. A professional portfolio is required by all competitors. If a preliminary round and finals round are utilized for this competition, the finals round will be treated as a follow-up interview, even if a judge(s) is different. There would also not be an additional application.

In this event, students compete individually.

Job Skill Demonstration A (includes Middle School)

Competitors demonstrate and explain an entry-level skill used in the occupational area for which they are training. Competitors must demonstrate a career objective in an occupational area that is included in one of the competition areas of the SkillsUSA Championships. The competition requires a demonstration performing an occupational skill accompanied by a clear explanation of the topic using experiments, displays or practical operations.

In this event, students compete individually. If a competitor needs to use a model for their demonstration, they must provide the student model. This competition is open to Middle School, Secondary (High School), and Post-Secondary (College).

Note: The difference between Job Skill Demonstration A and Job Skill Demonstration Open: "A" requires the skill demonstrated must be from the occupational area in which the competitor is enrolled and the skill must be one that is included in a currently offered SkillsUSA competition. "OPEN" requires that the skill be considered a technical skill, however, it can be from an occupational area other than the competitor's occupational area and it does not have to be a skill included in a currently offered SkillsUSA competition.

Job Skill Demonstration Open (includes Middle School)

Competitors demonstrate and explain an entry-level technical skill used either in the occupational area for which they are training or outside the training area. The competition requires a demonstration performing an occupational skill accompanied by a clear explanation of the topic using experiments, displays or practical operations.

Marine Service Technology

This competition includes individual skill stations consistent with the requirements in the marine service profession. The hands-on test stations may include many aspects of two-stroke and four-stroke outboard, sterndrive and inboard troubleshooting and repair. Students should be proficient in marine application electrical/ignition systems, fuel systems, cooling systems, lubrication systems, drive/transmission/jet propulsion systems and boat and trailer rigging and repair. Competitors are also judged on safe work practices, cleanliness, organizational skills, accuracy, speed and completion of assigned tasks, worksheets and paperwork.

In this event, students compete individually.

Masonry

This competition highlights skills training in the masonry industry. Competitors are expected to construct a composite brick and block project within a six-hour period that tests their ability to meet industry standards in quality. Students are judged on the most frequently used details in masonry construction.

In this event, students compete individually.

Mechatronics

This competition requires competitors to have the ability to understand complex systems that integrate various elements in the mechanical, fluid power and controls domain, combined with the ability to work in a team environment with people with different areas of expertise. This competition consists of three events designed to measure the skills required in the modern automated manufacturing environment. Competitors are required to assemble, adjust and test an automated machine system, trouble shoot and repair a faulty machine system and take a comprehensive written tests. The competition elements are designed to be as realistic as possible, closely resembling the tasks and activities of modern automation professionals.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2.

Medical Assisting

Competitors are judged on their skills, speed, use of correct safety measures and the ability to interact personally with the patient(s). The competition consists of various stations associated with skills that may be found in an ambulatory medical office or clinic. The competitors are judged on general office skills, communication skills, patient education, knowledge of anatomy and physiology, knowledge of medical terminology instruments, medical equipment and on procedures and techniques found in a ambulatory medical office or clinic. Competitors are given scenarios which require action. They should be able to read scenarios, assess the supplies/equipment and/or situation in a short period of time and execute the skill required for that situation within the given time limit. Documentation, grammar, correct pronunciation and spelling count in all stations.

In this event, students compete individually.

Medical Math

This competition allows students to demonstrate their knowledge of general math concepts used in the healthcare field. They will complete a written test that may include the use of ratio/proportion, dosage calculation, metric and household equivalents, Roman numerals, abbreviations, and general math including percentages, along with other medical math-related problems.

In this event, students compete individually.

Note: This competition consists of two total tests, the Medical Math test and the SkillsUSA Professional Development test. The Medical Math test will be taken in person during the conference. The SkillsUSA Professional Development test will follow the conference testing guidelines.

Medical Terminology

This competition evaluates the knowledge of medical terminology and abbreviations used by an individual preparing for employment int he health occupations fields. Competitors will demonstrate knowledge of medical word roots, prefixes, suffixes, medical word building and medical abbreviations by successfully answering the questions. Contest for the test is based on the Core Standards from the National Health Care Core Skills Standards Project.

In this event, students compete individually.

Note: This competition consists of two total tests, the Medical Terminology test and the SkillsUSA Professional Development test. The Medical Terminology test will be taken in person during the conference. The SkillsUSA Professional Development test will follow the conference testing guidelines.

Mobile Electronics Installation

This competitions tests competitors' abilities to perform standard installation practices used by certified, professional mobile electronics installers. These skills have been established through the certification objectives and items created for the Basic MECP certification by the Consumer Electronics Association. This event includes a test, interview and up to five hands-on applications that may include, but is not limited to, taking electrical measurements, installing consumer electronics equipment in a mobile environment, soldiering, working with relay circuits and troubleshooting electronic circuitry.

In this event, students compete individually.

Mobile Robotics Technology (includes Middle School)

This competitions includes activities that simulate situations encounteredby robotic programmers and support professionals. Teams are given a task to solve using a mobile robotic system that is built ahead of time and brought to the competition. Teams will ahve two scored chances to solve the mobile robotic challenge and will be given a design and prograaming interview. Once a team has performed the required task or set of tasks, a design change may be introduced. Competitors are required to adhere to industry safety standards using the hardward and software they have selected.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2. This competition is open to Middle School, Secondary (High School), and Post-Secondary (College).

Note: Middle School teams will have a separate game manual from High School and Post-Secondary. These manuals will be made available in the contest updates page.

Motorcycle Service Technology

Competitors perform tasks representative of those encountered in a dealership's service department. Technical skills include performing maintenance tasks; use of service, electrical diagnostic and parts manuals; electrical diagnostics; precision measurement; brake service; chassis/suspension service; fuel delivery system inspection and repair; transmission and drive systems; and powertrain systems. Judges will look for clean and organized work habits, the correct use of reference materials, the ability to follow directions and good technical skills.

In this event, students compete individually.

Nail Care

This competition evaluates the competitor's ability to perform the most common nail services in the salon industry today. The competition consists of six separate segments: oral communication skills; acrylic application; tip and light-cured enhancement overlay applications; nail polish application; nail art; pedicuring and a written exam.

In this event, students compete individually. Competitors must provide their own student models.

Nurse Assisting

Competitors demonstrate knowledge and skill in performing personal care, encouraging patient independence, assisting with ambulation, as well as standard infection control procedures used in basic nurse assisting. Students also demonstrate knowledge and abilities in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the measurement of vital signs. Competitors must be familiar with basic anatomy, communications skills, legal/ethical issues and employment skills.

In this event, students compete individually.

Occupational Health and Safety (Multiple & Single)

Competitors demonstrate the safety and health endeavors of their respective technical programs by assembling a scrapbook that highlights important programs, activities and events related to their school's health and safety. The competition encourages chapters to be active in all aspects of SkillsUSA. The health and safety activities of the chapters will be evaluated on the planning, organization and outcome of four projects. Students are interviewed and portfolios are scored by a panel of judges based on the quality and content of the book(s) and on the candidates' presentation during the interview process.

There are two separate competitions under Occupational Health & Safety, "Multiple" and "Single". A chapter/school may enter different competitors in each. "Single" refers to a team from a single program, regardless of how many teachers in that program, where all projects involve only that program. "Multiple" refers to a team that represents multiple programs, where all projects involved those multiple programs.

In this event, students compete as a team of 3.

Opening & Closing Ceremonies (includes Middle School)

This competition is based on teamwork and oral presentation where a team's understanding of the symbolic representation of the colors and assembled parts of the SkillsUSA emblem are evaluated. The team will have students representing the roles of president, vice president, parliamentarian, reporter, treasurer, secretary and historian. If any students hold these actual positions within their chapter or other level, they do not have to play that role on the team. Judging for teams begins when the team begins to walk into the contest area and concludes after they exit. All movements/actions and speaking in between are scored.

In this event, students compete as a team of 7. This competition is open to Middle School, Secondary (High School), and Post-Secondary (College).

Outstanding Chapter (includes Middle School)

This competition consists of activities members have been involved with during the school year including chapter meetings, leadership training, publicity, community service projects, professional development, program of work, awards, local and state competitions and other selected chapter activities. Each activity is documented in a professional portfolio and a team of three members are interviewed.

In this event, students compete as a team of 3. This competition is open to Middle School, Secondary (High School), and Post-Secondary (College)

Photography

Competitors are put through a series of real-world photographic scenarios and are judged on their overall mastery of the content. The skills being judged may include, but are not limited to: understanding the features of today's digital SLR or mirrorless cameras, operation on a field assignment, producing a contact sheet, producing a composited digital fine art piece from a field assignment, portrait/commercial studio using strobes, troubleshooting common photo errors, print competition, and an interview.

In this event, students compete individually.

Pin Design (includes Middle School)

This competition is designed to assess a competitor's ability to design and produce a trading pin concept for SkillsUSA South Carolina. In addition, competitors must create an informative, educational, and promotional tabletop display, and deliver a presentation regarding all aspects of their state pin design.

In this event, students compete individually. This competition is open to Middle School, Secondary (High School), and Post-Secondary (College).

In this competition, students are evaluated and recognized for excellence and professionalism in the areas of creative and critical thinking skills and decision-making process used to solve a problem. The competition is intended to foster creativity, innovation, teamwork and problem-solving skills. During the contest orientation, students are provided with materials and a task or project to complete within an allotted time. Projects vary and will require some form of construction and engineering principles. Although this contest is not restricted to students in engineering programs, having some engineering knowledge or skills is helpful.

In this event, students compete as a team of 3. This competition is ONLY open to Middle School students / chapters.

Plumbing

In this competition, competitors rough-in hot and cold-water lines with copper tubing and rough-in sanitary drainage, waste and vent lines with cast iron and PVC plastic for a water closet, a lavatory, a washer box and a floor drain. Water pipes are pressure tested on completed projects. Competitors are judged on their accuracy, workmanship, proper selection and use of tools and supplies, and proper safety procedures.

In this event, students compete individually.

Power Equipment Technology

This competition assesses the competitor's ability to perform tasks representative of those encountered in a dealership's service department, associated with the standards of power equipment technology. As the competitors rotate through the various stations, they are judged and scored on technical and oral skills. Competitors must demonstrate excellent customer service skills, safe work practices, cleanliness, organization, accuracy, speed, and completion of assigned tasks. The hands-on stations may include many aspects of two-stroke, four-stroke, compact diesel engines, and battery-powered equipment and their associated mechanical, hydraulic and electrical systems.

In this event, students compete individually.

Practical Nursing

Competitors demonstrate their ability to perform procedures and skills consistent with practical nursing competencies. Competitors are judged on their knowledge of medical terminology, body structure and function, nutrition, medications and nursing care. They must also demonstrate their abilities to perform job skills such as administration of oral, subcutaneous and nasogastric medications; physical assessment; insertion of a nasogastric tube; sterile dressing change and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Competitors are judged on accuracy of their skill, organization, communication and safety.

In this event, students compete individually.

Prepared Speech (includes Middle School)

This competition requires students to deliver a five-to-seven-minute prepared speech based on the annual SkillsUSA competition theme (national theme). Competitors are evaluated on their ability to present thoughts relating to the central theme clearly and effectively, and are rated on voice, mechanics and platform deportment.

In this event, students compete individually. This competition is open to Middle School, Secondary (High School), and Post-Secondary (College).

Principles of Engineering - Technology

The competition evaluates competitors' understanding of basic technical concepts and principles of the applied sciences and their ability to demonstrate and explain the concept/principle in action and application. Any technical concept may be demonstrated, provided it is related to the principles of technology or engineering curriculum and incorporates basic principles of the applied sciences.

In this event, students compete individually.

Promotional Bulletin Board (includes Middle School)

This competition evaluates bulletin board displays created by SkillsUSA members based on the annual SkillsUSA competition theme (national theme). The bulletin boards promote SkillsUSA, career and technical education in genera, and related occupational information. An accompanying professional portfolio documents the development and construction of the bulletin board. An oral presentation explains the process, purpose and educational value of the bulletin board.

In this event, students compete as a team of 3. This competition is open to Middle School, High School, and College/Post-Secondary levels..

Quiz Bowl

This competition tests a team on their ability to quickly respond to knowledge questions covering academics, current events and SkillsUSA professional development curriculum. Teams will demonstrate communication skills, teamwork, problem solving and time-management skills by determining and presenting the answer to each question clearly within the five-second time frame.

In this event, students compete as a team of 5 to 7.

Related Technical Math

This competition assesses a competitor's ability to demonstrate the skills required to solve mathematical problems correctly that are commonly found in the skilled trades and professional and technical occupations. Skills demonstrated include addition; subtraction; multiplication; division of whole numbers; fractions and decimals; applied word problems; percentages; ratio proportions; averages; area; volume; metric measures; and traditional (Imperial) measures and trigonometry.

In this event, students compete individually.

Note: This competition consists of two total tests, the Related Technical Math test and the SkillsUSA Professional Development test. The Related Technical Math test will be taken in person during the conference. The SkillsUSA Professional Development test will follow the conference testing guidelines.

Residential & Commercial Appliance Technology

Competitors diagnose common service issues on residential and commercial refidgeration, laundry, cooking, dishwashing, and/or food serving products. Competitors also demonstrate their ability to braze and use Lokring technology by assembling a copper and steel tubing project per a schematic provided. The competitor's customer satisfaction and employability skills will also be evaluated using interviews, job applications and various types of assessments. There is a need for good understanding and use of tools and test equipment, providing the most professional service available to customers as necessary. There may also be a residential and commercial appliance technology general knowledge learning exercise.

In this event, students compete individually.

Restaurant Service

In this competition, students are tested on skills required in the front of the house of a fine dining restaurant. The focus is on guest service and guest relations in the dining room including table set up; greeting guests; reservations procedures; presentation of menus; description of food, drinks, soups and specials of the day; taking orders; serving each course and clearing the table after each course; and preparation and presentation of the check and closing remarks. Competitors are judged on personal appearance, tableside manner, professionalism, ease with guests, courtesy, general knowledge and technical and verbal skills.

In this event, students compete individually. This competition will open to Post-Secondary students in 2024.

Robotics - Urban Search and Rescue (includes Middle School)

In this competition, teams are required to build a robot and arm mechanism prior to the competition. The robot must be capable of locating, grabbing and moving simulated ordnances on the challenge course. This competition assesses proficiencies such as remotely operating the robot via camera, navigation, manipulating the arm mechanism to collect simulated ordnances, traversing various types of terrain, and communication between driver and spotter.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2. This competition is open to Middle School, Secondary (High School), and Post-Secondary (College).

Note: The Robotics: Urban Search and Rescue Challenge Guide for the current year will be provided in the state contest updates page.

Robotics and Automation Technology

This competition challenges teams to demonstrate operation of a five-axis servo-robot along with a set of sensors and motorized devices to resolve a production process problem. Teams set up and demonstrate operation of a robotic workcell from a word problem. Competitors also utilize and program a Siemens LOGO PLC as part of the contest as well as a Cognex vision camera. Competitors are required to create a flowchart and sequence of operation. Teams are also judged on efficiency, speed and teamwork.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2.

Screen Printing Technology

In this competition, competitors are tested on their ability to prepare screens (coat, expose, etc.), register a multi-color design on a manual printing press and print a multi-color design on a manual printing press.

In this event, students compete individually.

Sheet Metal

Competitors are evaluated on their ability to perform such jobs as connecting sheet metal pieces with drive cleats, spot welding and riveting. Skills tested may include, but are not limited to, straight duct, transition fitting and 45-degree entry tap fitting. Competitors are judged on accuracy, completeness and craftsmanship, use of hand tools, correctness of layout and shop safety procedures.

In this event, students compete individually.

T-Shirt Design (includes Middle School)

This competition is designed to assess a competitor's ability to design and produce a t-shirt concept for SkillsUSA South Carolina. Competitors must create a professional portfolio that documents the process they used to create the design. They will also participate in an oral presentation regarding all aspects of their creation of the design and explain how the t-shirt represents their state, its unique qualities and why another SkillsUSA student or adult member would want to wear the shirt. Competitors must create an informative, education, and promotional tabletop display.

In this event, students compete individually. This competition is open to Middle School, Secondary (High School), and Post-Secondary (College).

Tactical Response Team (STATE ONLY)

This competition requires a team of 4 students to develop and carry out a plan to demonstrate basic tactical team skills. Teams will complete a fitness course, obstacle course, written test, and complete a scenario(s) requiring tactical response.

In this event, students compete as a team of 4. See standards for eligibility requirements for Post-Secondary students.

Team Engineering Challenge (Middle School only)

In this event, students compete as a team of 3. This competition is ONLY open to Middle School students / chapters.

TeamWorks

In this competitions, students work together to build a construction project over two days that demonstrates their ability to work as a team. Each team will be required to understand the project elements based on a detailed blueprint and special instructions presented at the pre-competition orientation. Each team must then write a project completion action plan and present their plan as one of the key elements of the competition (all team members must participate in the presentation). During the construction project, the team demonstrates their ability to work together by using their carpentry, roofing, electrical, plumbing and masonry skills. Judging is based on the team's presentation skills, ability to construct the project per competition specified building codes, jobsite safety and cleanliness, organized and correct ordering of materials from the competition depot, proper use and accountability of tools and equipment and the rate of completion of the project.

In this event, students compete as a team of 4.

Technical Computer Applications

Competitors may be required to demonstrate installation, configuration and use of Windows, Mac OSX and Linux Professional Operating Systems and one or more integrated office suite packages including email, word processing, spreadsheet applications, database applications, web page development, money management applications, presentations applications, internet browser applications, etc. The use of open-source software such as OpenOffice is preferable. Microsoft Office and other integrated office suites can be used. The utilization of instant messaging, collaboration and social networking software will be required during the contest. Competitors are expected to perform in teams while demonstrating individual technical skills. The competitions includes an oral presentation demonstrating the student's ability to communicate with others, a hands-on skills demonstration and a written examination.

In this event, students compete individually.

Technical Drafting

This competition evaluates a competitor's preparation for employment and recognizes outstanding students for excellence and professionalism in the field of technical drafting. The competition will focus on the solution of industry-developed problems by applying appropriate technical drafting skills and tools including computer-aided drafting (CAD). Competitors create a 3-D model and extract properly scaled 2-D views from those models for placement and annotation on standards inch or metric sized drawing sheets.

In this event, students compete individually.

Telecommunications Cabling

This competition tests students' knowledge of worldwide industry standards related to cabling and connections for data and voice connections, physical and logical networks and signal transmission. Competitors may be required to demonstrate skills in fiber and copper cable termination, pulling and mountain cabling, patch panel installation and termination, installing jacks, cable and fiber optic testing and troubleshooting, and providing customer service.

In this event, students compete individually.

Television (Video) Production

In this competition, teams are required to plan and shoot a video (generally 30 seconds or one minute in length) on location to convey a theme or prompt that is provided at orientation OR in advance through the state contest updates page. Editing is done in the competition area with special emphasis on professional production of the video by industry standards, quality of audio and video and adequate conveyance of the theme to the viewer of the final piece.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2.

Trial Advocacy (State Only)

In this competition, teams of 2 participate in a mock trial involving a provided case. This will include objections, opening statements, direct examination, cross examination, and closing arguments.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2.

Truck Driving (State Only)

In this competitions, students will demonstrate proper commercial truck driving skills, vehicle inspection and maintenance, navigation and route planning, time management and organization, communication skills, and customer service skills. When competing at the state level, competitors either need to have a Class A or Class B CDL, or are enrolled in a class that has curriculum standards that prepare them to obtain their Class A or Class B CDL once they reach the appropriate age to do so. If no CDL is currently obtained, a letter from an administrator will be required to fit the standard of a course aiming to gain their CDL prior to graduation. See Competition Updates for more details.

In this event, students compete individually.

Video News Production

In this competition, teams have two hours to write and produce their rundown before the assigned competition time. Two students serve as the news anchor team, one student serves as the team's director/technical director, and one student is the floor director. Teams will produce and complete a three-minute newscast as if it were live. Teams are evaluated on their broadcast writing ability, voice quality, diction, timing and pacing and performance techniques.

In this event, students compete as a team of 4.

Web Design & Development

Teams complete a series of challenges focusing on creating a website for a client and a specific target audience. Judging will focus on meeting the clients needs, usability and accessibility, and industry-standard best practices Teams will also be evaluated on the process they use to meet the challenges and how well they work as a team.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2.

Wedding Cake Decorating (STATE ONLY)

Teams of 2 compete to construct a 3-tiered wedding cake that could be used in an actual wedding ceremony. The design will be created and completed by the team. Design blueprints or drawings are created and provided. These cakes will be placed on display at the contest conclusion.

In this event, students compete as a team of 2.

Welding

In this competition, competitors receive drawings and a set of welding procedure specifications that conform to the latest edition of the American Welding Society standards. Competitors are tested on various aspects of welding: measuring weld replicas, using weld measuring gauges, laying out a plate and using oxy-acetylene equipment to cut several holes that are checked for accuracy and quality, gas metal arc welding (GMAW) on steel making welds in various positions using short circuiting transfers, flux cored arc welding (FCAW) using a shielding gas, making welds in various positions and, using a combination machine capable of providing the correct welding current for shielding metal arc (SMAW) and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW). Competitors complete the steel project and weld an aluminum project in various positions using a variety of filler metals.

In this event, students compete individually.

Welding Fabrication

This competition requires a team to use their welding and fabrication skills to build a designed project from the provided material. The project is constructed by the competitors based on prints provided. Teams should be skilled in the following welding and cutting processes: SMAW, GTAW, GMAW, FCAW / OFC and PAC. All competitors must be proficient in using common tools of a workshop.

In this event, students compete as a team of 3.

Welding Sculpture

In this competition, students demonstrate their ability to design and produce a welded sculpture and to describe all aspects of the create of their design. Welding sculptures are displayed for the competition along with a professional portfolio documenting evidence of creating the original work. Each participant is interviewed regarding the design and create of the piece.

In this event, students compete individually.

Note: There will be an on-site welding component for each competitor.