Local students shine at national skills competition

ATLANTA —Students from Vanguard-Sentinel Career and Technology Centers (VSCTC) showcased their talents at the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference in June, returning from Atlanta with three national medals. Described by Sentinel as "the largest gathering of America's future skilled workforce in career and technical education," the event brought together more than 24,000 attendees from across the country. Pride in performance Seven students from area schools represented VSCTC at the national level. Superintendent Greg Edinger expressed pride in their accomplishments. "We are extremely proud of the VSCTC students who earned the opportunity to compete at the national championships," he said. "They represented our district with honor, demonstrating the leadership, skills and professionalism that characterize Vanguard Sentinel Career and Technology Centers." Edinger also emphasized the importance of the broader support system behind the students' success. "These stakeholders offer invaluable guidance, encouragement, and resources that are essential for student success." Building skills and confidence VSCTC Executive Director Elissa Heal highlighted the long-term benefits of participating in SkillsUSA. "Participation in competitions like the National SkillsUSA Championships has a profound impact on students. These events serve as a catalyst for skill development, offering hands-on experience that enhances their technical abilities and better prepares them for real-world challenges," Heal said. "The competitive atmosphere fosters networking opportunities with industry professionals and peers from around the country, allowing participants to build valuable relationships that can benefit their future careers." She also noted the personal growth students experience through the program. "Skills such as teamwork, communication and problem-solving are strengthened through SkillsUSA." Automotive refinishing: Alec Windsor Alec Windsor, a 2025 graduate of Tiffin Columbian, reflected on his time in the collision repair program and how it shaped his future. "The gold placement means more than just a medal to me," he said. "It's a reminder of the 3 years I've spent at Sentinel in collision repair working so hard to reach that goal. My plans for the future will involve full time employment at the Tiffin Reineke Family Collision Center as a Body Technician, where I will absolutely apply and use the skills and training I've gained from this opportunity to grow my career even further and achieve a solid foundation for the future of my life." He added: "Participating in SkillsUSA and attending VSCTC have helped me discover what I wanted to do and 'express myself and who I am.'" Building maintenance: Alexis Hensley Alexis Hensley, a Port Clinton student in the STEP (Students Transitioning into Employability with Purpose) program, shared how SkillsUSA helped her grow socially and professionally. "Being part of Skills has helped me to make more friends, get closer to my teachers and has also helped me find something I actually like doing," she said, adding that her gold medal proved to her that she can do anything and that hard work pays off. Nurse assisting: Anaya Bell Anaya Bell, a 2025 graduate of Fremont Ross, spoke about the emotional impact of her SkillsUSA experience and her future in nursing. "Placing third out of 30 other competitors and securing a bronze medal was surreal," she said. "It means success, validation, and it's made me feel that no matter how worried or unsure I am, with effort and support, I can do anything." Bell plans to attend the University of Toledo's Nursing School to earn her BSN, with aspirations of becoming a trauma nurse or midwife. "It's given me the strongest sense of belonging I've ever felt," she said. "Participating in SkillsUSA has taught me how to grow as a person in new ways." Bell says the program has helped her develop self-confidence and the courage to try new things and be in new situations. Other students showcase their talents Interactive Application and Video Game Development • Jeremiah Albrechta, Fremont Ross, 2025 graduate, Digital Media, 12th place • Aiden Hemminger, Lakota, 2025 graduate, Digital Media, 12th place Collision Repair Technology • Javier Mellott, Old Fort, 2025 graduate, Collision Repair, 7th place Masonry • Jaheim Stratton Fremont Ross, 2025 graduate, Building Trades