Skills USA (computer applications) will send one member to the national conference after their first time ever competing in the Skills USA state Leadership Conference and Skills Championships.

Sophomore Jessica Blanco placed 2 nd in extemporaneous speaking (speaking with little or no preparation impromptu), and she qualified for nationals since the first place speaker could not attend. Also placing 2 nd was senior Alex Kollen, who participated in automotive service tech. Sophomore Erik Leon placed 3 rd in technical computer apps. Senior Nicole White placed 4 th in customer service and seniors Amar Patel and Jon Lydy placed 6 th in web design.

The competition took place at Linn-Benton Community College April 13 th and 14 th .

Skills USA advisor Colleen Fletcher said, “I'm really proud of the students and how hard they've worked to get this club up and running.”

Skills USA is a leadership club that prepares students for the working world and teaches service leadership. This year's Skills USA Club will be losing four of their six participants to graduation and encourages students to join the Club next year. The club is open to students in 9-12.

Senior Amar Patel states, “I encourage people to join because it prepares you for your career path.”

Fletcher's last comment on the club this year was, “I've had a great time with the students in the club this year. Many members will graduate in June, so we'll be looking for some new recruits.”

This year's Skills USA Computer Club nominated Guff Thorpe for a Gold Pennant. A Gold Pennant is rewarded to those who have helped organize another club and helped them receive their Skills USA membership. He'll be receiving the Pennant before the end of the school year.