District 11 Championship Program_2019 Online Guide | Page 3

Welcome to the 34th SkillsUSA Council PA District 11 Championships. It’s our favorite time of year at the Council—the time when the hard work and dedication displayed by students in their technical schools can be seen by their parents, teachers, and future employers. It’s very rewarding to watch the students grow and mature from year to year, and they gain both skill and confidence. The students you see today are the best in their trades, and are here to compete to earn a spot at the State Conference, held April in Hershey. Last year we had 88 state competitors, with 23 of those students bringing home a medal from Hershey. Seven students advanced to the National Leadership and Skills Conference in Louisville in June. Two competitors brought home silver medals - Building Maintenance and Motorcycle Service Technology. We are very proud of these students and recognition they’ve brought to our area. Championships is one example of professional development opportunities that students receive through their participation in SkillsUSA. This is the first chance for many competitors to work with and demonstrate their skills to industry representatives. This year we are pleased to announce that we have nearly $200,000 pledged in scholarships for the winners of 12 competitions. These scholarships will be announced during the Awards Ceremony. Thank you to Automotive Training Center, D’Olimpio Memorial Fund Northampton Community College and Universal Technical Institute for contributing scholarships. Thank you, also, to the more than 400 volunteers and contributors who give your time, talent, and treasure to make today’s event possible. These volunteers include event manag- ers, judges, off-site businesses, alumni, and student volunteers. Without your support this event would not be possible. Together we are building a better workforce and a stronger community! Shawn Silvoy Chairman, SkillsUSA Council EMS & Inter-Facility Liaison Lehigh Valley Health Network Katie Walter Executive Director SkillsUSA Council SkillsUSA Council Ÿ 555 Union Boulevard Allentown, PA 18109 Ÿ 610-841-1190 Ÿ SkillsUSACouncil.org SkillsUSA Council is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization