SkillsUSA continues to empower nearly 400,000 members nationwide, equipping them with the personal, workplace, and technical skills needed to excel as world-class workers, leaders, and responsible American citizens. This mission was on full display at the 2024-2025 SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference, held on February 20-21 in Atlanta, GA, where more than 1,200 students, advisors, and industry partners gathered to showcase their talents.

With over 800 outstanding student competitors participating in more than 85 trade, technical, and leadership fields, the competition highlighted expertise in areas such as cabinetmaking, cosmetology, mechatronics, entrepreneurship, and more. More than 300 business and industry volunteers served as judges, evaluating competitors on their technical knowledge and skills.

The event took place at the Georgia World Congress Center, featuring not only competitions but also the SkillsUSA TECHSPO, where over 100 exhibitors showcased industry-leading technologies and best practices. Workshops and leadership sessions further reinforced SkillsUSA’s commitment to preparing the nation’s future workforce.

Augusta Technical College’s SkillsUSA team delivered a stellar performance, continuing the Georgia Postsecondary team’s tradition of placing in the top five nationally for medal counts. The Augusta Tech Cougars took home an impressive 11 medals and secured two first-place wins. Additionally, Design and Media Production Technology (DMPT) student Rashell Tanner completed her service year as SkillsUSA State Vice President, representing Augusta Tech with distinction

Gold Medal Winners (Advancing to SkillsUSA Nationals, June 23-27 in Atlanta, GA)

• Isaac Miller – Graphic Imaging Sublimation

• Nelicia Wingfield – Advertising Design

Silver Medal Winners

• Charles Cooley – Culinary Arts

• Hayden Shaw – Aviation Maintenance

• Talyna Edgar – Advertising Design

• Grace Tucker – T-Shirt Design

Bronze Medal Winners

• Sarah McCarty – Baking & Pastry

• Ryan Cosden – Advertising Design

• Marietta Williams – T-Shirt Design

• Jacob Bryce Long & Brandon Bracy – TV Production Team

In addition to its strong showing in competition, Augusta Tech earned recognition as a Level 1 Recipient: Quality Chapter in the 2025 Chapter Excellence Program, a testament to the college’s dedication to fostering leadership and career-readiness among students.

Augusta Tech congratulates all of its SkillsUSA competitors and looks forward to supporting its gold medal winners at the SkillsUSA National Championships this summer.