We Are SkillsUSA Washington

Overview

Representing nearly 6,300 career and technical education students and teachers, SkillsUSA Washington chapters thrive in middle schools, high schools and college/postsecondary institutions across 6 regions. Our mission is accomplished through the SkillsUSA Framework of Personal Skills, Workplace Skills and Technical Skills Grounded in Academics, which is integrated into classroom curriculum.

Mission

SkillsUSA is America’s proud champion of the skilled trades. Our mission is to empower students to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders and responsible community members.

Vision

SkillsUSA’s vision is to produce the most highly skilled workforce in the world, providing every member the opportunity for career success.

Values

Integrity

We are consistent and authentic in word and action to each other, our members and the communities we serve.
DEI focus: SkillsUSA engages marginalized communities to understand local needs. We act to center equity in our work.

Respect

Respect is foundational. Our self-awareness precedes our ability to connect with each other and our members while mutually valuing our unique experiences.
DEI focus: SkillsUSA does the internal work necessary to enter into respectful and empowering relationships with diverse communities.

Responsibility

We are accountable to the whole of our organization, from internal staff to our diverse group of stakeholders. Through listening, learning and acting, we engage in our shared commitment to realizing a collective vision.
DEI focus: As a career and technical education leader, SkillsUSA embraces our responsibility to remove barriers to opportunity, access and participation for traditionally underserved communities.

Community

We value and belong to a diverse community. We strive to do our best in service through continuous reflection and growth.
DEI focus: SkillsUSA engages marginalized communities to understand their needs. We advocate for equity to influence systemic action and localized service.

Service

SkillsUSA acts through the willing service of staff and committed volunteers to empower its members and their communities to reach their highest potential.
DEI focus: SkillsUSA works in partnership with marginalized communities, mindful of its position and responsibility to create opportunities for impact.

SkillsUSA Framework

SkillsUSA’s mission is accomplished through the SkillsUSA Framework of Personal Skills, Workplace Skills and Technical Skills Grounded in Academics. The foundation for everything we do, the Framework is the blueprint for career-readiness. It’s a common language for students to explain to their peers, employers, school administrators and parents what they gain from SkillsUSA.

A total of 17 “Essential Elements” are divided among the Framework’s three components. What’s an Essential Element? It’s a specific skill identified as crucial to success by the more than 1,000 industry partners who helped create the Framework.

Learn More About the SkillsUSA Framework

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

SkillsUSA Washington aims for inclusive participation in all programs, partnerships, and employment. Diversity includes race, color, religion, gender, orientation, identity, expression, transition, origin, age, ability, thinking, experience, and education. We value all members, partners, and employees, fostering a welcoming environment. Respect and dignity guide our interactions. SkillsUSA encourages everyone to join our community of choice.

Learn More About Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

Heritage Months

Heritage months provide us with opportunities to recognize, celebrate, and learn from the diverse cultures, histories, and contributions of various communities. SkillsUSA Washington embraces the principles of diversity, inclusivity, and equity in the workforce. By honoring heritage months, we reinforce our commitment to cultivating a vibrant, inclusive environment that values the richness of every individual’s background and experiences.

Learn More About Heritage Months

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