Students represent SD at National SkillsUSA

Three Hill City High School students had the honor of representing their school as well as the state of South Dakota at the National Leadership and Skills Conference (NLSC) held by SkillsUSA in Atlanta, Ga.

The conference hosts the largest gathering of the nation’s future skilled workforce to compete, develop leadership skills and network with industry professionals.

“Attending the NLSC is an incredible opportunity for our students,” said career and technical education (CTE) instructor Travis Santistevan. “They get to see the very best SkillsUSA members from across the country while also developing leadership, communication and career-ready skills that will benefit them long after high school. The experience exposed them to new ideas, new people and new possibilities within their chosen career fields.”

Addyson Kurtz competed in the photography competition where she showcased her creativity and technical skills as well as professionalism against students from across the country. 

Karson Kolb and Ayden Kurtz participated in the Immersive Construction Experience, designed as a hands-on workforce development program of career exploration, applied learning and behind the scenes tours of real, large scale building sites.

The trio will also serve as South Dakota SkillsUSA State Officers for the upcoming year. As state officers, they will serve as ambassadors, conference facilitators and peer mentors representing their state’s CTE programs. 

“I am extremely proud of Addysen, Karson and Ayden for representing Hill City and South Dakota on the national stage,” said Santistevan. “Beyond competitions and activities, one of the biggest benefits is the confidence students gain. They return home with a broader perspective, stronger leadership abilities and a renewed excitement for their future careers and education.”