October 2024: What’s Up Washington?
October 2024 Newsletter
As we enter the busy fall season, we’re excited to share the latest news and opportunities for SkillsUSA Washington! Whether you’re gearing up for the Fall Leadership Camp, participating in our advisor training series, or getting ready for the upcoming events, there’s something for everyone. Read on to stay informed about all the important things you need to know in October and beyond. We’re thrilled to keep you connected as we continue building bright futures together.
What’s New 🤩
Upcoming Events
Fall Advisor Training Series
October 1-21, 2024 @ 4-6 PM | Virtual
Two trainings left! Instructor/Advisor training is ideal for new chapters, instructors, and schools establishing with SkillsUSA, as well as for existing chapters aiming to enhance their programs.
Fall Leadership Camp
October 25 – October 26, 2024 | Black Diamond Camp – Auburn, WA
We can’t wait to welcome our registered students and advisors to Fall Leadership Camp in a couple of weeks! Those who are registered be sure to keep a close eye on your inbox the days leading up to camp for some important information.
SkillsUSA Workplace Learning Experiences (WPLE) Pilot Program
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of the SkillsUSA Workplace Learning Experiences (WPLE) pilot program, a groundbreaking initiative designed to connect classroom learning with real-world application. This program offers students invaluable exposure to professional environments and career opportunities, equipping them with hands-on experience vital for their future success.
Your SkillsUSA chapters have a unique opportunity to be among the first to access these innovative resources. Here’s a snapshot of what’s included in the middle school pilot program:
WPLE Toolkit Overview
– Introduction to SkillsUSA
– Explore Career Education Courses at Local High Schools
– Introduction to Workplace Learning Experiences
– Planning Guide
– Career Cluster Lesson Plan
– Career Essentials Foundations Lesson Plan Guide
– Integration of Exploratory Career Essentials Guide
– Career Plan Conversation Guide
– Career Research Project Instructional Guide
– Guest Speaker Engagement Resources
Surveys
– Feedback Surveys: We ask that both students and advisors complete surveys to provide feedback on the toolkit material and its delivery.
Convenings
– Attend Two Convenings: Participate in two convenings to review resources and offer feedback.
Getting Started is Easy!
– Complete the Chapter Commitment Form: Confirm your chapter’s participation by Tuesday, October 22.
We’re excited for you to explore these new resources and look forward to your chapter’s involvement in the WPLE pilot program. Your support is invaluable in enhancing our students’ career readiness and providing them with essential real-world experiences.
Pin and T-Shirt Design Competitions Now Open!
Calling all designers! The Pacific Northwest Pin Design and State Design competitions are now accepting submissions. These competitions offer a unique opportunity for middle school, high school, and college/postsecondary competitors to showcase their artistic skills and represent their region and state.
Submissions are open from October 15, 2024 – January 31, 2025, with winners announced on February 6, 2025.
– Pacific Northwest Pin Design: Create a pin design representing Washington, Oregon, and Idaho for the National Leadership and Skills Conference.
– State Design: Design a T-shirt or pin concept for SkillsUSA Washington to be featured at the State Leadership and Skills Conference.
What’s Great 👍
Congrats Chapter Social Media Challenge Winners!
A big congrats to our Chapter Social Media Challenge Winners – Heritage High School with a total of 12 posts, 585 likes, 11 comments, and 117 shares!
Heritage High School has won a fantastic prize – 100% membership fees covered for their chapter (up to 55 members) – a $1,000 value! Congrats, Heritage High School and a huge thank you for spreading the word about SkillsUSA and the great things we do!
Skills Jam
While at the National Leadership and Skills Conference this summer, Skills Jam sat down with several students including Washington’s, gold medal winner, Keara Burns of Aberdeen High School. The students held nothing back about their prospective careers, anxieties, and where they feel secure. It’s a great video we encourage all to watch!
What’s Next 🚀
Fall Advisor Training Series
There’s still two trainings left in our Fall 2024 Advisor Training Series. These trainings are perfect for new chapters, instructors, and schools establishing with SkillsUSA, as well as existing chapters looking to enhance their programs. See our upcoming sessions below!
Missed a session? Watch our previous trainings and download the slides on our Advisors Resources page.
Integrating SkillsUSA into your Classroom Framework
Thursday, October 17 @ 4-6 PM | Zoom
Clock Hour Registration – Closes October 24 @ 5 PM
Round Table: Statewide Support for Advisors
Tuesday, October 22 @ 4-5 PM | Zoom
2024 Bright Future Career Fair
November 15, 2024 @ 9:30 AM-1:30 PM | Lumen Field Event Center
High school seniors in an automotive technology programs and students in automotive technology programs at community colleges and skills centers are invited to attend the 2024 Bright Future Career Fair. Franchise new car and truck dealerships and community colleges will be present to meet with students to discuss employment and career opportunities. Plus, attendees get free admission to the Seattle International Auto Show!
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Looking Ahead 👓
Technical Contest Deadline
January 31, 2025 | Statewide
Leadership Contest Deadline
February 1, 2025 | Statewide
State Conference Draft – Announcement of the State Invite List to Follow Shortly
February 6, 2025 | Statewide
State Leadership & Skills Conference
March 27-29, 2025 | Clover Park Technical College – Lakewood, WA
State Officer Elections
March 28, 2025 | Statewide
National Leadership & Skills Conference
June 23-27, 2025 | Atlanta, GA
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