Leadership in Action: CTC Students Serve in Regional and State Roles for SkillsUSA

Springfield-Clark Career Technology Center’s (CTC) chapter of SkillsUSA sharpened their professional skills at the SkillsUSA State Fall Leadership Conference in Columbus, Ohio last week. SkillsUSA, a national organization focused on preparing students for careers in trade, technical, and skilled service occupations, hosted this event to provide training and leadership development opportunities. This year’s conference drew over 1,300 student leaders from across Ohio, including 23 from CTC, all eager to grow as future professionals.

Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders

During the conference, students participated in a series of leadership training sessions and workshops designed to help them excel both personally and professionally. These sessions covered everything from leading a school chapter to organizing community outreach projects. A highlight of the event was a keynote speech from a motivational speaker who emphasized the power of a positive mindset and mental resilience—key traits for any future leader.

Regional Elections: CTC Students Step Up to the Challenge

This year’s conference was especially significant for CTC students, as it included regional office elections within the newly realigned Central Region. Seven students from CTC stepped up to run for leadership positions, competing against 40 other candidates from across the region:

• Elizabeth Beam - a junior in Health Occupations from Southeastern High School
• Abby Campbell - a junior in Health Occupations from Greenon High School
• Ben Gilbreth - a junior in Engineering & Architectural Design from Global Impact STEM Academy
• Jolie Henderson - a junior in Health Occupations from Southeastern High School
• Luke James - a junior in Engineering & Architectural Design from Northeastern High School
• Cristian Portillo - a junior in Heating & Air Technologies from Tecumseh High School
• Paige Scott - a junior in Health Occupations from Tecumseh High School

The competition was intense, with six of our students advancing to the finals—a remarkable feat in such a large pool of talented candidates. In the end, three CTC students secured regional offices, earning the opportunity to serve the Central Region for the 2024-2025 school year:

• Elizabeth Beam - a junior in Health Occupations from Southeastern High School
• Abby Campbell - a junior in Health Occupations from Greenon High School
• Cristian Portillo - a junior in Heating & Air Technologies from Tecumseh High School

These three students will attend a special training session in January, where they will receive their specific office assignments. The training will include a visit to the Ohio State Capitol and meetings with state representatives, allowing them to further refine their leadership skills and learn more about state government.

CTC Students at the Forefront of Statewide Leadership

Two CTC students played key leadership roles throughout the conference. Diego Martinez, a senior in Medical Assisting from Tecumseh High School, served as one of the seven state officers elected earlier this year. Diego’s leadership and guidance were integral to the conference’s success, as he presented to the 1,300 students and teachers in attendance, representing Springfield-Clark CTC with excellence.

Additionally, Hailey Neer, a senior in Computer Graphic Arts from Northeastern High School and the current Central Region President, managed the region’s election process with professionalism and skill, setting a high standard for all student leaders.

This year’s SkillsUSA Fall Leadership Conference was a tremendous success for Springfield-Clark CTC. “We are incredibly proud of our students for their dedication, enthusiasm, and hard work. They not only represented our school but also embodied the core values of SkillsUSA—leadership, responsibility, and excellence,” shared CTC’s Superintendent Michelle Patrick. Special recognition goes to our advisors, Mr. Rice, Mr. Barge, and Mrs. Ritzenthaler, who have dedicated countless hours to mentoring and guiding these emerging leaders.

More about SkillsUSA

SkillsUSA is a national organization representing nearly 400,000 career and technical education students and teachers. Its chapters span middle schools, high schools, and colleges/postsecondary institutions nationwide. At the heart of SkillsUSA is the mission to develop world-class workers, leaders, and responsible American citizens. Students can showcase their skills in more than 140 occupational areas—from 3-D Animation to Welding—while simultaneously developing essential career-readiness skills. SkillsUSA has been a crucial force in bridging the skills gap in America since its founding in 1965, impacting over 14.6 million members who are now thriving in their chosen fields.