MOUNT VERNON — The 2011 SkillsUSA competition for the Southeast Region of Ohio was held Saturday at the Knox County Career Center, and students in career and technical programs competed in contest areas ranging from basic health care to cosmetology to technical math to welding.
In addition to a hands-on practicum, each section of the competition included a written test, such as the Automotive Service Excellence exam. Most of the areas had a spectator section which enabled individuals to watch the students demonstrate their skills.
In the drafting lab, for example, contestants could chose between an architectural challenge or a mechanical drafting challenge. In precision machining, there was a choice between lathe or milling. Welding components included various methods such as MIG welding, stick welding, and fender repair and painting.
Saturday is the first time since the 1990s that KCCC has hosted the regional meet and visiting school personnel complimented the KCCC facility and its army of 150 volunteers, including actual Army personnel, which helped with the competition.
Carol Riffle, from Zanesville, said they liked the colors all around the building. “We like the murals on the lab doors. That’s kind of cool. We are just starting renovations at our school, so we are getting some ideas.”
“It was very welcoming when we first came in the front door,” commented Cindy Price, also from Zanesville. “I’ve traveled around all the halls. I thought it was well-maintained. There’s a lot of colorful visual displays, and the staff and students were very friendly and helpful.”
