Earning a Varsity Letter for Skilled Trades
Elizabeth also helped make history at her school. She had an idea:“ What if students could earn a varsity letter for SkillsUSA, just like athletes do for their championships?” Working with her instructor Matt, school leaders, and the state director of SkillsUSA, she helped create a framework for earning a SkillsUSA varsity letter.
Now, students across Washington can letter in SkillsUSA. The effort earned a“ thank you” letter from the Washington State governor.
Matt believes this recognition will encourage more students to explore hands-on career pathways and show employers that students are serious about their skills.
Big Opportunities Ahead
Manufacturing careers are in high demand in Snohomish County. Former
Core Plus Aerospace students have gone on to become CNC machine operators, welders, fabricators, and airplane builders.
“ Core Plus Aerospace opens the door to incredible opportunities, from careers at Boeing to pathways into universities, the military, and apprenticeship programs,” said Holly Miles from Boeing.“ For students who love hands-on learning, it’ s a direct connection to real-world careers where the skills they build today can lead to meaningful, high-demand jobs tomorrow.”
For Elizabeth, Core Plus Aerospace has opened doors and given her confidence.
With hands-on skills, leadership experience, and real-world training, she’ s not just dreaming about a career in aerospace manufacturing.
She’ s building it.
18 | LET’ S GO AEROSPACE