RCCC News Service

SALISBURY — Four students from Rowan-Cabarrus Community College competed at the 2024 SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. With more than 16,000 attendees, including students, educators and representatives from 850 corporations, trade associations and labor unions, the event is recognized as the largest skill competition in the world, with 115 hands-on skill and leadership competitions.

The following Rowan-Cabarrus students placed first in the state and placed in the top 10 nationally in their competitions:

• Iris Urbina, fifth place, nail care
• Jared Valdespino Moran, sixth place, masonry
• Tyler Arbeen, seventh place, electrical construction wiring
• Nathan Connelly, eighth place, sheet metal

“Competing in SkillsUSA showed me my potential in the industry that I love to be involved in. It helped me gain new techniques to better my work and introduced me to other peers in the industry,” said Iris Urbina, cosmetology student. “This competition allowed me to step out of my comfort zone to be able to explore and learn more about my skills. This competition opened new doors to my career as it showed my potential.”

Faculty and staff from Rowan-Cabarrus who attended the conference to support students included Vice President of Academic Programs Dr. Michael Quillen, Dean of Technical Programs Dr. Kelli Antonides, Chair of Construction Technologies Programs Joe Christie, SkillsUSA Coordinator and Advisor Jon Crockett, and Faculty Advisors Jeffery Mrugalski, Larry Newcomb and Christopher Belch.

“The SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference was an incredible opportunity for our students to shine, and they did not disappoint,” Quillen said. “Their impressive results are a direct reflection of their skills and the comprehensive education we provide. I am thrilled to support them and look forward to their continued success.”

SkillsUSA, the leading workforce development organization for students, is a nonprofit dedicated to preparing middle school, high school and college students for careers in trade, technical and skilled service occupations. SkillsUSA empowers students to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders and responsible community members.

“We are immensely impressed by our students who showcased their skills and determination at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference this year,” RCCC President Dr. Carol S. Spalding said. “Competing at the national level is a testament to their commitment to excellence and to the College’s ongoing mission to prepare students for successful careers in skilled trades.”