Nebraska faces workforce shortages in several key areas, as schools step up to prepare kids for high demand careers through SkillsUSA.
Red jackets are a common sight around Grand Island this week as students from across Nebraska gather for the state SkillsUSA leadership conference.
The event brings together students competing in hands-on contests that mirror real-world careers, from welding and diesel technology to healthcare, robotics and broadcasting.
“It’s a place where students can take what they learn in the classroom and apply it to real-world scenarios,” said Max Mendez, a senior at Grand Island Senior High and a state officer for SkillsUSA. “They get advice, practice the skills that those jobs entail, and sometimes they even get a job on the competition floor.”
Mendez, who serves as the state treasurer, said he has been involved at the state level for two years after first being elected by student delegates from chapters across Nebraska. In that role, he helps organize leadership conferences, including events in Omaha and Hastings, as well as the statewide conference in Grand Island.
The organization also connects students with industry professionals and lawmakers. Mendez said one of his favorite experiences is participating in legislative days at the Nebraska Capitol, where students advocate for career and technical education.
SkillsUSA offers a wide range of competitive events. Nationally, there are more than 100 contests, with Nebraska offering even more, including some unique to the state.
“We have broadcast journalism, robotics, first aid, CPR, medical testing, culinary arts, diesel technology, welding, fabrication,” Mendez said. “We offer that wide range.”
One of the more intensive competitions challenges students to complete a construction project over two days, requiring teamwork and long hours.
At Grand Island Senior High, Mendez said career and technical education is embedded through an academy model, allowing students to choose pathways such as healthcare, engineering or business. He is in the healthcare pathway and plans to pursue a career in respiratory therapy.
“I think I definitely had the benefit of being able to experience a wide range of careers,” he said. “That’s how I figured out where I want to be.”
Beyond competition, Mendez said SkillsUSA provides a sense of community among students focused on their futures.
“Everyone is thinking about what’s next and how they prepare themselves,” he said. “That’s really just amazing to be around.”
The organization currently has about 2,800 members in Nebraska, with a goal of reaching 5,000 by 2030.
“If there’s a SkillsUSA chapter in your town, please join it,” Mendez said. “And if there’s not, make one.”
