Las Cruces -- The SkillsUSA state championships were held in Albuquerque April 6-9. Doña Ana Community College (DACC) students competed against students from other New Mexico community colleges, each other and the clock in various contests that showed their proficiency in occupational areas.
More than 187 students from 9 New Mexico community colleges competed in 35 technical events at the SkillsUSA challenge. All competitions were judged by professionals in the various fields.
“This competition is important to our students so they can see how they perform against their peers,” said Saundra Castillo, DACC Division Dean of Technical Studies and club sponsor. “Our students did very well in representing our community college in their enthusiasm, attitude and performance.”
Bringing home the gold for DACC was Jon Myllykangas in automotive technology, Victor Velazquez in electronics technology and Lorena Giesbrecht won two gold medals in restaurant service and job interview. Silver was awarded to Victor Velazquez in the job interview competition. Bronze winners included Bianca Lugo in culinary arts and Student Government President Derek Holder in prepared speech. The gold medalists are qualified to compete at the national competition in June where more than 6,000 students are scheduled to compete.
Other students participating included Humberto Corral in Automotive Technology, Loyd Sellers in Job Skill Demonstration and Adriana Martinez in Commercial Baking.
According to the SkillsUSA website the organization “is a partnership of students, teachers and industry representatives working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce. SkillsUSA helps each student to excel. SkillsUSA is a national organization serving teachers and high school and college students who are preparing for careers in technical, skilled and service occupations, including health occupations...”
Information from DACC