While Lake Travis High School has a multitude of clubs that cover various topics, there is only one that is tailored to people with any skill: SkillsUSA. According to the official SkillsUSA website, “[SkillsUSA] empower[s] students to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders and responsible community members.” This organization dates back to 1965, and was formed at Lake Travis High School in 2019, and is the perfect place to strengthen acquired skills and explore new ones.
With 115 varying solo and team competitive events, ranging from creative competitions such as T-shirt design to medical competitions such as Health Knowledge Bowl, it is safe to say there is something for everyone to explore.
Competing in SkillsUSA additionally provides students with a chance to break out of their comfort zones. “It’s definitely not there as much,” said Genevieve Baker, Senior Vice President of this year’s SkillsUSA chapter, when discussing how she has overcome her anxiety while presenting at competitions. “I’ve gained a lot of confidence.”
SkillsUSA is also a great place to build community and travel with friends. “I didn’t know many people in the club when I first joined and I was able to create amazing friendships,” said senior SkillsUSA member Esme Piercé, who placed 6th at the 2024 National competition in Promotional Bulletin Board. “It is nearly impossible to not make a friend in SkillsUSA. Everyone hangs out together regardless of how long they’ve known each other.”
Meetings are every other Monday in Mrs. Woods room and registration opens for competitions in October, so the time to act is now. Official competitions start in February at the district level, then progres to the State level with a weekend in Corpus Christi. Those who qualify spend a glorious week in Atlanta, Georgia for nationals in June. The National Leadership Skills Conference is a chance for competitors to challenge the best in their field.
As students become settled into a steady routine this school year, anyone wanting to expand their community or improve their skills should stop by the next meeting. All current SkillsUSA members attended their first meeting with uncertainty and nerves, but left with a new community, lifelong memories, and fully padded resumes.
