Sanford Regional Technical Center's SkillsUSA chapter was welcomed into the Chapter Excellence Program (CEP) at the SkillsUSA Leadership Conference in Bangor. This unexpected honor recognizes SRTC's outstanding commitment to integrating the SkillsUSA Framework into their program activities.
The achievement highlights just one facet of SRTC's impressive showing at the statewide competition, where students collected multiple honors across a range of technical and leadership events.
Competing against the best from 26 other Career and Technical Education schools across Maine, SRTC students showcased their skills in 42 different challenging competitions. The school's commitment to developing well-rounded leaders was further demonstrated by Brian Graffam of Massabesic High School, who stepped forward as a candidate for a State Officer position.
For more information and pictures, click here.
The awards continued to accumulate throughout the conference, with several Sanford students bringing home gold medals in their respective competitions. Macie Tardiff from the Law Enforcement Program earned Gold in the Crime Scene Investigation contest, showcasing her forensic skills and attention to detail. Lailany Everett represented the Culinary Program, securing Gold in the Culinary Arts competition. Matthew Melvin from the Architecture Program proved his mathematical prowess by winning Gold in the Related Technical Math competition.
Deanna Watson received special recognition for her outstanding design work for the State Leadership Conference materials, further showcasing the creative excellence fostered at SRTC.
Adding to these individual achievements was the performance by SRTC's Courtesy Corps team, who swept the podium in their category—claiming first, second, and third place honors. Their commitment to excellence was demonstrated by pre-dawn wake-up calls on both Thursday and Friday, ensuring flawless execution throughout the competition.
For the students of SRTC, the SkillsUSA Leadership Conference delivered far more than trophies and certificates. It provided invaluable real-world experience, direct feedback from industry professionals, and the confidence-building challenges that prepare them for successful careers. As they return to their workshops and classrooms in Sanford, these young professionals carry with them not just accolades, but the proven skills that will open doors to their futures.