Contest Descriptions for 2012
Find your Contest
Look over the descriptions below and decide on a contest that appeals to you. It helps if it is part of your major but it is not necessary.
Check the Tech Standards
On the links page, download the Tech Standards and find your selected contest. These are the details of the competitions and a list of the skills you will need to be successful.
Speak with an Advisor
You can email or speak with an advisor to express your interest in a particular contest.
Priority
Priority for contest registration is given based on the following:
- Students who have competed in prior SkillsUSA events
- Students who have a recomendation from a teacher or administrator
However, if no other student has selected a competition, it is a first come basis.
Look over the descriptions below and decide on a contest that appeals to you. It helps if it is part of your major but it is not necessary.
Check the Tech Standards
On the links page, download the Tech Standards and find your selected contest. These are the details of the competitions and a list of the skills you will need to be successful.
Speak with an Advisor
You can email or speak with an advisor to express your interest in a particular contest.
Priority
Priority for contest registration is given based on the following:
- Students who have competed in prior SkillsUSA events
- Students who have a recomendation from a teacher or administrator
However, if no other student has selected a competition, it is a first come basis.
3-D Visualization and Animation
The world of 3D is rapidly expanding, and career opportunities exist in a wide range of fields – including architecture, games, product and industrial design, civil engineering, and film and television animation. This contest allows students to step into a real world 3D production environment where creative output must be accomplished within specific timeframes, resources and design constraints. This is a two-person team event and includes a preliminary written exam. Contestants must produce high quality images and an animated short subject using 3D computerized images. Students are evaluated on their technical knowledge, production skills and creative abilities – including visual development and storyboarding. They will also have the opportunity to interface with and get feedback from high-profile judges with successful careers in 3D visualization and animation.
Advertising Design
Tests technical skills and creative aptitude just as though contestants worked for an ad agency. In addition to a written test, competitors will re-create a given advertisement on the computer. Competitors are judged on their accuracy, proficiency with industry standard software and ability to meet the given deadline. Contestants also compete in a creative portion of the competition. The creative portion involves the application of creative thinking and development of a design problem. Layout, drawing and illustration skills are used, as well as their ability to create vibrant, effective designs using the computer.
American Spirit
A notebook contest documenting SkillsUSA chapters' community service and citizenship projects that demonstrate a belief in the American way of life and the purposes of SkillsUSA.
Architectural Drafting
Contestants will use their drafting skills to solve an Architectural problem. The problem includes a written test, a hand sketch, and drawings EITHER computer-generated or board drafted. If board drafting, please bring all necessary equipment. The contest tests the contestants' problem solving abilities, not simply their CAD skills.
Audio/Radio Production
The Audio/Radio Production contest is designed to challenge contestants in two-person teams to produce a 60-second to two-minute audio/radio production. Specific details for the production are determined by the technical committee based on the published technical standards and available production opportunities. The contestants are judged on the professionalism of their production, the quality of the audio and the conveyance of the information to the listener.
Automotive Service Technology
Contestants will demonstrate their ability to perform jobs and skills based on the task list outlined by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). Workstations consist of on-vehicle, simulations, bench and component testing and a written test. Contestants will be judged on technical competency, accuracy, quality, safety and ability to follow directions. There are thirteen skill stations including the written test.
Broadcast News Production
The contest is comprised of four student members. Two students serve as the news anchor team, one student will serve as the team’s director/technical director, and one student will serve as the floor director. Each team will have two hours to write and produce their rundown before assigned contest time. Teams will produce and complete a three-minute newscast as if it were live. Teams are evaluated on their broadcast writing ability, voice quality, diction, timing and pacing and performance techniques.
Chapter Business Procedure
Student teams of six members, will demonstrate their knowledge of parliamentary procedure in both a written exam and a team demonstration. The written exam will consist of 100 questions related to materials found in Robert's Rules of Order—Newly Revised. Order a copy here. Scores are averaged and included as part of the team's overall score. During the presentation, the team will demonstrate the running of a typical business meeting using a standard order of business. During the presentation, the team must properly insert into the order of business the secretary's minutes, treasurer's report and business items identified by the technical committee. In addition to the debate and transaction of the business items, teams will also properly demonstrate at least 6 different parliamentary procedure motions, including at least one of each of the following: main, privileged, subsidiary, incidental and motions that bring back issues to the floor. Minutes of the demonstration will be read by the secretary upon completion of the demonstration.
Chapter Display
Selects the outstanding promotional exhibit designed and constructed by SkillsUSA student members. The display is built around and articulates a common theme established annually by SkillsUSA. The contest involves a team of no more than three students setting up the display and one student presenting information about the display in a presentation/interview with judges.
The theme for this year's contest can be found here.
Collision Repair Technology
Contestants will demonstrate their ability to perform jobs and skills based on the task list outlined by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). The competition includes a series of workstations to assess skills in the following areas: metal straightening, welding, plastic repair, and structural analysis. There will be a written test on estimating, structural analysis, and an ASE exam. The competitors will also participate in an interview. The overall appearance of the finished product, speed and proper safety practices will be judged.
Commercial Baking
Challenges contestants to meet production and quality standards expected by industry. Students must scale, mix, prepare and bake six products (including breads, rolls, Danish, cookies and pies) and demonstrate cake-decorating skills. They must deliver a quality, salable product while working efficiently and under job-like conditions.
Community Service
The community service competition evaluates local chapter activities that benefit the community. SkillsUSA chapters present their best community service project for the year. Contestants are evaluated on a notebook which reports their chapter's community service project and on a live presentation, which is given to a panel of three judges.
Download a sample scoresheet to see what contestants are judged on.
Computer Maintenance Technology
The CMT contest requires contestants to identify and repair computer hardware malfunctions, solve configuration problems, and install common components. In addition, the contestants take the A+ Certification exam. Their score on this exam is used as the basis for the written portion of the contest, and contestants who pass the exam receive their A+ Certification.
Crime Scene Investigation
Contestants will be directed to the crime scene and briefed as to the situation. The contestants will, as a three-person team, process the crime scene. They will legally search for, properly collect and remove evidence of the crime. One member of the team will be required to lift a latent fingerprint from a pre-selected item of evidence. After the scene has been processed, the contestants will write their report, draw the crime scene sketch and mark their evidence.
Criminal Justice
For students preparing to be police officers or to work in other areas of criminal justice. Typically this contest will utilize both written examination and practical exercises to evaluate the contestants' abilities and knowledge of the field. The contestants are scored on their knowledge and application of U.S. Constitutional Law, written and verbal communications skills, and their ability to handle an entry-level law enforcement position.
Culinary Arts
The competition will encompass both hot and cold food preparation and presentation. Contestants will demonstrate their knowledge and skills through the production of a four-course menu in a full day competition. The contestants will be rated on their organization, knife skills, cooking techniques, creative presentation, sanitation food safety techniques, and above all, the quality and flavor of their prepared items. The high school competitors will work from one menu with standardized recipes. The college/postsecondary students will work from a market basket format and write their own menu and recipes the night before the competition.Customer Service
Evaluates students' proficiency in providing customer service. The contest involves live, role-playing situations. Contestants demonstrate their ability to perform customer service in both written and oral forms including telephone and computer skills, communications, problem solving, conflict resolution and business etiquette.
Electronics Technology
The contest is divided into five sections: customer service exam, written exam, soldering, breadboarding and troubleshooting. Contestants' will demonstrate their knowledge of analog and digital circuitry; ability to troubleshoot electronic circuits; ability to construct and test experimental circuits; and, ability to design and select circuit components. All aspects of the competition test contestants' abilities to use and calibrate electronic equipment, record and organize data, and demonstrate proper safety practices.
Employment Application Process
Tests the contestant's readiness in applying for employment and their understanding of the process. The contest is available to students who are classified under the provisions of Public Law 105-17, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 1997. The competition includes completing an application and interviewing with the judges. Their resume and portfolio are used during their interviews.
Entrepreneurship
A team event testing students' knowledge in starting their own businesses by developing business plans that identify needed products or services in a local market. Emphasis is placed on financial planning and practicality of product/service. Teams give oral presentations based upon their written plans and the team must successfully answer questions by a team of judges in response to typical problem encountered by entrepreneurs during their first year of business.
Extemporaneous Speaking
Requires contestants to give a three- to five-minute speech on an assigned topic with five minutes of advance preparation. Contestants enter the preparation area one at a time where they are given a speech topic. They are judged on voice, mechanics, platform deportment, organization and effectiveness.
First Aid/CPR
Evaluates contestant's ability to perform procedures or take appropriate action based on scenarios presented related to CPR (Adult/AED, Child and Infant CPR) first aid Medical emergencies. There is also a written exam. All skills are judged on nationally accepted standards identified from any of the following organizations: The American Red Cross, The American Heart Association, American Safety and Health Institute and The National Safety Council.
Food and Beverage Service
Contestants are tested on skills required in the "front of the house" of a fine restaurant. The focus is on guest service and guest relations in the dining room including: table set up; greeting guests; reservations procedures; presentation of menus; description of food, drinks, soups and specials of the day; taking orders; serving each course and clearing the table after each course; and preparation and presentation of the check and closing remarks. Contestants are judged on personal appearance, tableside manner, professionalism, ease with guests, courtesy, general knowledge and technical and verbal skills.Graphic Communications
Contestant will participate in a seven part contest which includes the following segments in alphabetical order: DIGITAL WORKFLOW—The student will access file and follow instruction to perform preflight operations to make corrections and review overall quality of the file; ELECTRONIC PREPRESS—The student will create a file with InDesign on an Apple Computer and following instructions will create a file that matches a provided sample; FINISHING—The student will prepare and operate a paper cutter, following instruction cut paper to specifications, prepare table top folder for various folding exercises and a short written test; OFFSET PRESS OPERATIONS—The student will prepare the press, install plate, make ready to print, and print two colors on a preprinted two color sheet; ORAL PROFESSIONAL ASSESSMENT—The student will participate in an interview exercise; PRODUCTION PLANNING—The student will solve production problems relating to paper, ink and production; and, TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE TEST—The student will complete a general technical knowledge test.
Additional information is available here
Health Knowledge Bowl
Tests teams of four students on their collective knowledge of health occupations. Teams are judged on speed and accuracy answering questions in nine categories: (1) Academic Foundations; (2) Communication; (3) Systems; (4) Employability Skills; (5) Legal Responsibility; (6) Ethics; (7) Safety Practices; (8) Teamwork; and, (9) Health Maintenance.
Download a study guide and sample questions and answers
Internetworking
The contest consists of three main parts--networking design, general networking knowledge and hands-on evaluations. The networking design problem tests a contestant's ability to design functionality, scalability, adaptability and manageability of an internetworking system. The online written portion tests the student's complete knowledge of internetworking concepts. The hands-on component demonstrates the abilities of the contestant to make cables, trouble shoot network systems, configure routers, switches and servers, to deliver customer service in a technical assistant center environment. The contestants will find errors in WAN and LAN networks; do an ISP configuration using routers and switches; talk a technician through an error they are having on their network; and, take an online, certification type test. The national contest is based on the most current CCNA certification. Install DNS, create a record, and install active directory services and DHCP, should have knowledge of creating user and group accounts on server 2008. Use this link to receive a 180 day trial version of server 2008:www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2008/en/us/try-it.aspx
Job Interview
Divided into three phases: completion of employment applications; preliminary interviews with receptionist; and, in-depth interviews. Contestants are evaluated on their understanding of employment procedures faced in applying for positions in the occupational areas for which they are training.
Job Skill Demonstration A
Contestants demonstrate and explain an entry-level skill used in the occupational area for which they are training. Competitors in Job Skill A must demonstrate a career objective in an occupational area that is included in one of the contest areas of the SkillsUSA Championships.
Job Skill Demonstration Open
Contestants demonstrate and explain an entry-level skill used in the occupational area for which they are training or outside of their training program. Any technical skill may be demonstrated.
Medical Math
Contestants demonstrate their knowledge of general math concepts used in the healthcare fields. They complete a written test that may include the use of ratio/proportion, dosage calculation, metric and household equivalents, Roman numerals, abbreviations, and general math including percentages, among other medical math-related problems.
Medical Teminology
To evaluate the knowledge of medical terminology and abbreviations of an individual preparing for employment in the health occupations fields.
Occupational Health and Safety
Students demonstrate the safety and health endeavors of their respective technical programs by putting together a scrapbook that highlights important programs, activities and events related to their school's health and safety program. The competition encourages chapters to be active in all phases of SkillsUSA. The health and safety activities of the chapters are evaluated on the planning and organization of four projects and the final outcome of those projects. Students are interviewed and scrapbooks are scored by a panel of judges based on the quality and content of the scrapbooks and on the candidates' presentation during the interview process.
Photography
Contestants demonstrate their ability to use digital SLR's, image editing software (Adobe Photoshop) and professional studio lighting. Students perform on-site photography, portrait studio lighting & posing, process and print digital photos and submit two 11x14 or 16x20 mounted & matted photographs in advance of the contest to be judged and displayed at the competition. Contestants are evaluated on their mastery of entry-level job skills.
Pin Design
Students present their state-winning pin along with their artwork and participate in an oral presentation regarding all aspects of their creation of the design. He/she will explain how the pin represents the state, its unique qualities and why another SkillsUSA student or adult member would want to wear it.
Prepared Speech
Requires students to deliver a speech five to seven minutes in length on a common theme established by National SkillsUSA early in the school year. Contestants are evaluated on their ability to present thoughts relating to a central theme clearly and effectively, and on voice, mechanics, and platform deportment.
The theme for this year's contest can be found here
Principles of Technology
Evaluates contestants' understanding of basic technical concepts/principles of the applied sciences and ability to demonstrate and explain the concept/principle in action and application. Any technical concept may be demonstrated, provided it is related to the principles of technology curriculum and incorporates basic principles of the applied sciences.
Promotional Bulletin Board
Judges bulletin board displays created by SkillsUSA chapters based on the annual SkillsUSA theme. The bulletin boards promote SkillsUSA, career and technical education in general, and related occupational information. An accompanying notebook documents the development and construction of the bulletin board. An oral presentation explains the process, purpose and educational value.
The theme for this year's contest can be found here
Quiz Bowl
The Quiz Bowl tests a team of 5 competitors' ability to quickly respond to questions covering the areas of academic knowledge, professional development and current events. The participants respond to a question by activating a buzzer system. The teams receive one point for a correct answer and lose a point for each incorrect answer. The active rounds (preliminary and finals) are 100 questions each.
Get sample Quiz Bowl questions
The Quiz Bowl has its own website
Related Technical Math
On a written test, contestants demonstrate skills required to solve mathematical problems commonly found in the skilled trades and professional and technical occupations. Skills demonstrated include addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of whole numbers, fractions and decimals; applied word problems; percentages; ratio proportions; averages; area; volume; metric measures and traditional (Imperial) measures and trigonometry.
Download a sample version of a Related Technical Math test
Residential Systems Installation and Maintenance
This contest replaces Electronics Applications.
The contest is based on the CEA-CompTIA DHTI+ HT0-201 and will include a written exam assessing general knowledge of residential
electronics installation and maintenance including smart house technologies. The skills performance event assesses the ability
of the contestant to install, maintain and troubleshoot a variety of devices encountered in a residential setting. A practical problem(s)
will be given to evaluate the contestant’s ability to function on a basic entry level. The hands-on section is also based on the CEA-CompTIA DHTI+ HT0-201 certification.
Residential Wiring
Contestants are required to complete a written test of questions formulated from the latest edition of the NEC, a practical conduit bending exercise and a hands-on installation of a conduit system, cabling system and wiring devices. Working from drawings and specification sheets, contestants are required to install an electrical system common with most residential projects. Judging is based on general workmanship, accuracy of layout and installation, and adherence to the current national Electrical Code and standard industry safe practices. Contestants knowledge of the materials used in the electrical industry will be tested when they are required to fill an order from a bill of material that will be used to complete the hands-on portion of this contest.
Robotics and Automation Technology
Challenges two-person teams to demonstrate operation of a five-axis servo-robot along with a set of sensors and motorized devices to resolve a simulated production process problem. Teams set up and demonstrate operation of a robotic workcell from a word problem. Contestants are required to create a flow chart and sequence of operation. Teams are also judged on efficiency, speed and teamwork.
Sustainability Solutions Demo
To recognize outstanding Green technology innovation projects that have been developed by a two-member team of students. The student team will present its innovative idea along with a display and live model. A team would be required to document the idea generation process and be prepared to present the idea as well as the need for the project chosen.
Contest Guidelines
T-shirt Design Demo
The contest is designed to assess the ability of the competitor to design and produce a drawing of that design, as well as give a presentation regarding all aspects of his or her creation of the design.
Contest Guidelines
TeamWorks
Teams of four students will be required to build a construction project, over three days that will demonstrate their ability to work together as a Team. Each Team will be required to understand the project elements based on a detailed blue print and special instructions presented at the pre-competition orientation. Each Team must write a project completion "action plan" and will present their "action plan" as one of the "key" elements of the competition (all Team members must participate during the presentation). During the 'construction project", the Team will demonstrate their ability to work together as a Team by using their carpentry, electrical, plumbing and masonry skills. Judging is based on the Team's presentation skills, ability to construct the project per "competition specified" building codes, jobsite safety and cleanliness, organized and correct ordering of materials from the competition material depot, proper use and accountability of tools and equipment and the rate of completion of the project for the Team. Teamworks is not only a Skills USA competition, but a way of learning, for each Team member, to help maximize their skills for their future.
Tech Prep Showcase
Recognizes outstanding Tech Prep students for their ability to present, through the design and construction of a display, the application of skills and education brought about through Tech Prep career training. Students perform a professional team presentation applying the appropriate technology associated with the Tech Prep program. A team consisting of three students enrolled in the same recognized Tech Prep program must present the project.
Technical Computer Applications
Contestants will be expected to demonstrate installation, configuration and use of Windows, Mac OSX and Linux Professional Operating Systems and one or more integrated office suite packages including email, word processing, spreadsheet applications, database applications, web page development, money management applications, presentations applications, internet browser applications, etc. The use of Open source software such as OpenOffice will be preferable. Microsoft Office and other integrated office suites could be used. The utilization of instant messaging, collaboration and social networking software will be required during the contest. Contestants will be expected to perform in teams while demonstrating individual technical skills. The contest will include an oral presentation demonstrating the student's ability to communicate with others, a hands-on skills demonstration, and a one hour time allotted written examination.
Technical Drafting
This contest evaluates contestant's preparation for employment and recognizes outstanding students for excellence and professionalism in the field of technical drafting. The contest will focus on the solution of industry-developed problems by applying appropriate technical drafting skills and tools including computer-aided drafting (CAD).
Telecommunications Cabling
For students interested in voice and data network cabling and installation. This competition tests to worldwide industry standards for data and voice connections, physical and logical networks and signal transmission. Contestants demonstrate skills in reading network design documentation, parts list set- up and purchase, pulling and mounting cable, choosing wiring closets, patch panel installation and termination, installing jacks and cable testing. Both CAT 5/6e and fiber optics cable are presented. The contest stresses safety and working effectively in group environments as well as customer service skills.
Television (Video) Production
Teams of two contestants are required to plan and shoot a one-minute VHS video on location to convey the "theme" of the event. Editing is done in the contest area with special emphasis on professional production of the video by industry standards, quality of audio and video, and adequate conveyance of the "theme" to the viewer.
Video Product Development
During the school year, teams of two produce a five to seven minute video that promotes one of the following: the positive aspects of a specific career/technical training program; the positive aspects of a specific career/technical school; or, the positive aspects of SkillsUSA. Team members are judged on their project planning, scripts, storyboards, camera techniques, editing, use of royalty-free music/sound/graphics, special effects, overall impressions, skill-related written test and interview. The on-site, hands-on portion of the competition requires each team to create a computerized storyboard of their project (video) using PowerProduction StoryBoard Quick software.
Web Design
The project will be for each team’s to complete a series of challenges, with a focus on web site usability and accessibility with at least one challenge related to scripting. Each challenge must be documented, clearly demonstrating the skills as outlined in the SkillsUSA Championships Technical Standards 2010.
The world of 3D is rapidly expanding, and career opportunities exist in a wide range of fields – including architecture, games, product and industrial design, civil engineering, and film and television animation. This contest allows students to step into a real world 3D production environment where creative output must be accomplished within specific timeframes, resources and design constraints. This is a two-person team event and includes a preliminary written exam. Contestants must produce high quality images and an animated short subject using 3D computerized images. Students are evaluated on their technical knowledge, production skills and creative abilities – including visual development and storyboarding. They will also have the opportunity to interface with and get feedback from high-profile judges with successful careers in 3D visualization and animation.
Advertising Design
Tests technical skills and creative aptitude just as though contestants worked for an ad agency. In addition to a written test, competitors will re-create a given advertisement on the computer. Competitors are judged on their accuracy, proficiency with industry standard software and ability to meet the given deadline. Contestants also compete in a creative portion of the competition. The creative portion involves the application of creative thinking and development of a design problem. Layout, drawing and illustration skills are used, as well as their ability to create vibrant, effective designs using the computer.
American Spirit
A notebook contest documenting SkillsUSA chapters' community service and citizenship projects that demonstrate a belief in the American way of life and the purposes of SkillsUSA.
Architectural Drafting
Contestants will use their drafting skills to solve an Architectural problem. The problem includes a written test, a hand sketch, and drawings EITHER computer-generated or board drafted. If board drafting, please bring all necessary equipment. The contest tests the contestants' problem solving abilities, not simply their CAD skills.
Audio/Radio Production
The Audio/Radio Production contest is designed to challenge contestants in two-person teams to produce a 60-second to two-minute audio/radio production. Specific details for the production are determined by the technical committee based on the published technical standards and available production opportunities. The contestants are judged on the professionalism of their production, the quality of the audio and the conveyance of the information to the listener.
Automotive Service Technology
Contestants will demonstrate their ability to perform jobs and skills based on the task list outlined by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). Workstations consist of on-vehicle, simulations, bench and component testing and a written test. Contestants will be judged on technical competency, accuracy, quality, safety and ability to follow directions. There are thirteen skill stations including the written test.
Broadcast News Production
The contest is comprised of four student members. Two students serve as the news anchor team, one student will serve as the team’s director/technical director, and one student will serve as the floor director. Each team will have two hours to write and produce their rundown before assigned contest time. Teams will produce and complete a three-minute newscast as if it were live. Teams are evaluated on their broadcast writing ability, voice quality, diction, timing and pacing and performance techniques.
Chapter Business Procedure
Student teams of six members, will demonstrate their knowledge of parliamentary procedure in both a written exam and a team demonstration. The written exam will consist of 100 questions related to materials found in Robert's Rules of Order—Newly Revised. Order a copy here. Scores are averaged and included as part of the team's overall score. During the presentation, the team will demonstrate the running of a typical business meeting using a standard order of business. During the presentation, the team must properly insert into the order of business the secretary's minutes, treasurer's report and business items identified by the technical committee. In addition to the debate and transaction of the business items, teams will also properly demonstrate at least 6 different parliamentary procedure motions, including at least one of each of the following: main, privileged, subsidiary, incidental and motions that bring back issues to the floor. Minutes of the demonstration will be read by the secretary upon completion of the demonstration.
Chapter Display
Selects the outstanding promotional exhibit designed and constructed by SkillsUSA student members. The display is built around and articulates a common theme established annually by SkillsUSA. The contest involves a team of no more than three students setting up the display and one student presenting information about the display in a presentation/interview with judges.
The theme for this year's contest can be found here.
Collision Repair Technology
Contestants will demonstrate their ability to perform jobs and skills based on the task list outlined by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). The competition includes a series of workstations to assess skills in the following areas: metal straightening, welding, plastic repair, and structural analysis. There will be a written test on estimating, structural analysis, and an ASE exam. The competitors will also participate in an interview. The overall appearance of the finished product, speed and proper safety practices will be judged.
Commercial Baking
Challenges contestants to meet production and quality standards expected by industry. Students must scale, mix, prepare and bake six products (including breads, rolls, Danish, cookies and pies) and demonstrate cake-decorating skills. They must deliver a quality, salable product while working efficiently and under job-like conditions.
Community Service
The community service competition evaluates local chapter activities that benefit the community. SkillsUSA chapters present their best community service project for the year. Contestants are evaluated on a notebook which reports their chapter's community service project and on a live presentation, which is given to a panel of three judges.
Download a sample scoresheet to see what contestants are judged on.
Computer Maintenance Technology
The CMT contest requires contestants to identify and repair computer hardware malfunctions, solve configuration problems, and install common components. In addition, the contestants take the A+ Certification exam. Their score on this exam is used as the basis for the written portion of the contest, and contestants who pass the exam receive their A+ Certification.
Crime Scene Investigation
Contestants will be directed to the crime scene and briefed as to the situation. The contestants will, as a three-person team, process the crime scene. They will legally search for, properly collect and remove evidence of the crime. One member of the team will be required to lift a latent fingerprint from a pre-selected item of evidence. After the scene has been processed, the contestants will write their report, draw the crime scene sketch and mark their evidence.
Criminal Justice
For students preparing to be police officers or to work in other areas of criminal justice. Typically this contest will utilize both written examination and practical exercises to evaluate the contestants' abilities and knowledge of the field. The contestants are scored on their knowledge and application of U.S. Constitutional Law, written and verbal communications skills, and their ability to handle an entry-level law enforcement position.
Culinary Arts
The competition will encompass both hot and cold food preparation and presentation. Contestants will demonstrate their knowledge and skills through the production of a four-course menu in a full day competition. The contestants will be rated on their organization, knife skills, cooking techniques, creative presentation, sanitation food safety techniques, and above all, the quality and flavor of their prepared items. The high school competitors will work from one menu with standardized recipes. The college/postsecondary students will work from a market basket format and write their own menu and recipes the night before the competition.Customer Service
Evaluates students' proficiency in providing customer service. The contest involves live, role-playing situations. Contestants demonstrate their ability to perform customer service in both written and oral forms including telephone and computer skills, communications, problem solving, conflict resolution and business etiquette.
Electronics Technology
The contest is divided into five sections: customer service exam, written exam, soldering, breadboarding and troubleshooting. Contestants' will demonstrate their knowledge of analog and digital circuitry; ability to troubleshoot electronic circuits; ability to construct and test experimental circuits; and, ability to design and select circuit components. All aspects of the competition test contestants' abilities to use and calibrate electronic equipment, record and organize data, and demonstrate proper safety practices.
Employment Application Process
Tests the contestant's readiness in applying for employment and their understanding of the process. The contest is available to students who are classified under the provisions of Public Law 105-17, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 1997. The competition includes completing an application and interviewing with the judges. Their resume and portfolio are used during their interviews.
Entrepreneurship
A team event testing students' knowledge in starting their own businesses by developing business plans that identify needed products or services in a local market. Emphasis is placed on financial planning and practicality of product/service. Teams give oral presentations based upon their written plans and the team must successfully answer questions by a team of judges in response to typical problem encountered by entrepreneurs during their first year of business.
Extemporaneous Speaking
Requires contestants to give a three- to five-minute speech on an assigned topic with five minutes of advance preparation. Contestants enter the preparation area one at a time where they are given a speech topic. They are judged on voice, mechanics, platform deportment, organization and effectiveness.
First Aid/CPR
Evaluates contestant's ability to perform procedures or take appropriate action based on scenarios presented related to CPR (Adult/AED, Child and Infant CPR) first aid Medical emergencies. There is also a written exam. All skills are judged on nationally accepted standards identified from any of the following organizations: The American Red Cross, The American Heart Association, American Safety and Health Institute and The National Safety Council.
Food and Beverage Service
Contestants are tested on skills required in the "front of the house" of a fine restaurant. The focus is on guest service and guest relations in the dining room including: table set up; greeting guests; reservations procedures; presentation of menus; description of food, drinks, soups and specials of the day; taking orders; serving each course and clearing the table after each course; and preparation and presentation of the check and closing remarks. Contestants are judged on personal appearance, tableside manner, professionalism, ease with guests, courtesy, general knowledge and technical and verbal skills.Graphic Communications
Contestant will participate in a seven part contest which includes the following segments in alphabetical order: DIGITAL WORKFLOW—The student will access file and follow instruction to perform preflight operations to make corrections and review overall quality of the file; ELECTRONIC PREPRESS—The student will create a file with InDesign on an Apple Computer and following instructions will create a file that matches a provided sample; FINISHING—The student will prepare and operate a paper cutter, following instruction cut paper to specifications, prepare table top folder for various folding exercises and a short written test; OFFSET PRESS OPERATIONS—The student will prepare the press, install plate, make ready to print, and print two colors on a preprinted two color sheet; ORAL PROFESSIONAL ASSESSMENT—The student will participate in an interview exercise; PRODUCTION PLANNING—The student will solve production problems relating to paper, ink and production; and, TECHNICAL KNOWLEDGE TEST—The student will complete a general technical knowledge test.
Additional information is available here
Health Knowledge Bowl
Tests teams of four students on their collective knowledge of health occupations. Teams are judged on speed and accuracy answering questions in nine categories: (1) Academic Foundations; (2) Communication; (3) Systems; (4) Employability Skills; (5) Legal Responsibility; (6) Ethics; (7) Safety Practices; (8) Teamwork; and, (9) Health Maintenance.
Download a study guide and sample questions and answers
Internetworking
The contest consists of three main parts--networking design, general networking knowledge and hands-on evaluations. The networking design problem tests a contestant's ability to design functionality, scalability, adaptability and manageability of an internetworking system. The online written portion tests the student's complete knowledge of internetworking concepts. The hands-on component demonstrates the abilities of the contestant to make cables, trouble shoot network systems, configure routers, switches and servers, to deliver customer service in a technical assistant center environment. The contestants will find errors in WAN and LAN networks; do an ISP configuration using routers and switches; talk a technician through an error they are having on their network; and, take an online, certification type test. The national contest is based on the most current CCNA certification. Install DNS, create a record, and install active directory services and DHCP, should have knowledge of creating user and group accounts on server 2008. Use this link to receive a 180 day trial version of server 2008:www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2008/en/us/try-it.aspx
Job Interview
Divided into three phases: completion of employment applications; preliminary interviews with receptionist; and, in-depth interviews. Contestants are evaluated on their understanding of employment procedures faced in applying for positions in the occupational areas for which they are training.
Job Skill Demonstration A
Contestants demonstrate and explain an entry-level skill used in the occupational area for which they are training. Competitors in Job Skill A must demonstrate a career objective in an occupational area that is included in one of the contest areas of the SkillsUSA Championships.
Job Skill Demonstration Open
Contestants demonstrate and explain an entry-level skill used in the occupational area for which they are training or outside of their training program. Any technical skill may be demonstrated.
Medical Math
Contestants demonstrate their knowledge of general math concepts used in the healthcare fields. They complete a written test that may include the use of ratio/proportion, dosage calculation, metric and household equivalents, Roman numerals, abbreviations, and general math including percentages, among other medical math-related problems.
Medical Teminology
To evaluate the knowledge of medical terminology and abbreviations of an individual preparing for employment in the health occupations fields.
Occupational Health and Safety
Students demonstrate the safety and health endeavors of their respective technical programs by putting together a scrapbook that highlights important programs, activities and events related to their school's health and safety program. The competition encourages chapters to be active in all phases of SkillsUSA. The health and safety activities of the chapters are evaluated on the planning and organization of four projects and the final outcome of those projects. Students are interviewed and scrapbooks are scored by a panel of judges based on the quality and content of the scrapbooks and on the candidates' presentation during the interview process.
Photography
Contestants demonstrate their ability to use digital SLR's, image editing software (Adobe Photoshop) and professional studio lighting. Students perform on-site photography, portrait studio lighting & posing, process and print digital photos and submit two 11x14 or 16x20 mounted & matted photographs in advance of the contest to be judged and displayed at the competition. Contestants are evaluated on their mastery of entry-level job skills.
Pin Design
Students present their state-winning pin along with their artwork and participate in an oral presentation regarding all aspects of their creation of the design. He/she will explain how the pin represents the state, its unique qualities and why another SkillsUSA student or adult member would want to wear it.
Prepared Speech
Requires students to deliver a speech five to seven minutes in length on a common theme established by National SkillsUSA early in the school year. Contestants are evaluated on their ability to present thoughts relating to a central theme clearly and effectively, and on voice, mechanics, and platform deportment.
The theme for this year's contest can be found here
Principles of Technology
Evaluates contestants' understanding of basic technical concepts/principles of the applied sciences and ability to demonstrate and explain the concept/principle in action and application. Any technical concept may be demonstrated, provided it is related to the principles of technology curriculum and incorporates basic principles of the applied sciences.
Promotional Bulletin Board
Judges bulletin board displays created by SkillsUSA chapters based on the annual SkillsUSA theme. The bulletin boards promote SkillsUSA, career and technical education in general, and related occupational information. An accompanying notebook documents the development and construction of the bulletin board. An oral presentation explains the process, purpose and educational value.
The theme for this year's contest can be found here
Quiz Bowl
The Quiz Bowl tests a team of 5 competitors' ability to quickly respond to questions covering the areas of academic knowledge, professional development and current events. The participants respond to a question by activating a buzzer system. The teams receive one point for a correct answer and lose a point for each incorrect answer. The active rounds (preliminary and finals) are 100 questions each.
Get sample Quiz Bowl questions
The Quiz Bowl has its own website
Related Technical Math
On a written test, contestants demonstrate skills required to solve mathematical problems commonly found in the skilled trades and professional and technical occupations. Skills demonstrated include addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of whole numbers, fractions and decimals; applied word problems; percentages; ratio proportions; averages; area; volume; metric measures and traditional (Imperial) measures and trigonometry.
Download a sample version of a Related Technical Math test
Residential Systems Installation and Maintenance
This contest replaces Electronics Applications.
The contest is based on the CEA-CompTIA DHTI+ HT0-201 and will include a written exam assessing general knowledge of residential
electronics installation and maintenance including smart house technologies. The skills performance event assesses the ability
of the contestant to install, maintain and troubleshoot a variety of devices encountered in a residential setting. A practical problem(s)
will be given to evaluate the contestant’s ability to function on a basic entry level. The hands-on section is also based on the CEA-CompTIA DHTI+ HT0-201 certification.
Residential Wiring
Contestants are required to complete a written test of questions formulated from the latest edition of the NEC, a practical conduit bending exercise and a hands-on installation of a conduit system, cabling system and wiring devices. Working from drawings and specification sheets, contestants are required to install an electrical system common with most residential projects. Judging is based on general workmanship, accuracy of layout and installation, and adherence to the current national Electrical Code and standard industry safe practices. Contestants knowledge of the materials used in the electrical industry will be tested when they are required to fill an order from a bill of material that will be used to complete the hands-on portion of this contest.
Robotics and Automation Technology
Challenges two-person teams to demonstrate operation of a five-axis servo-robot along with a set of sensors and motorized devices to resolve a simulated production process problem. Teams set up and demonstrate operation of a robotic workcell from a word problem. Contestants are required to create a flow chart and sequence of operation. Teams are also judged on efficiency, speed and teamwork.
Sustainability Solutions Demo
To recognize outstanding Green technology innovation projects that have been developed by a two-member team of students. The student team will present its innovative idea along with a display and live model. A team would be required to document the idea generation process and be prepared to present the idea as well as the need for the project chosen.
Contest Guidelines
T-shirt Design Demo
The contest is designed to assess the ability of the competitor to design and produce a drawing of that design, as well as give a presentation regarding all aspects of his or her creation of the design.
Contest Guidelines
TeamWorks
Teams of four students will be required to build a construction project, over three days that will demonstrate their ability to work together as a Team. Each Team will be required to understand the project elements based on a detailed blue print and special instructions presented at the pre-competition orientation. Each Team must write a project completion "action plan" and will present their "action plan" as one of the "key" elements of the competition (all Team members must participate during the presentation). During the 'construction project", the Team will demonstrate their ability to work together as a Team by using their carpentry, electrical, plumbing and masonry skills. Judging is based on the Team's presentation skills, ability to construct the project per "competition specified" building codes, jobsite safety and cleanliness, organized and correct ordering of materials from the competition material depot, proper use and accountability of tools and equipment and the rate of completion of the project for the Team. Teamworks is not only a Skills USA competition, but a way of learning, for each Team member, to help maximize their skills for their future.
Tech Prep Showcase
Recognizes outstanding Tech Prep students for their ability to present, through the design and construction of a display, the application of skills and education brought about through Tech Prep career training. Students perform a professional team presentation applying the appropriate technology associated with the Tech Prep program. A team consisting of three students enrolled in the same recognized Tech Prep program must present the project.
Technical Computer Applications
Contestants will be expected to demonstrate installation, configuration and use of Windows, Mac OSX and Linux Professional Operating Systems and one or more integrated office suite packages including email, word processing, spreadsheet applications, database applications, web page development, money management applications, presentations applications, internet browser applications, etc. The use of Open source software such as OpenOffice will be preferable. Microsoft Office and other integrated office suites could be used. The utilization of instant messaging, collaboration and social networking software will be required during the contest. Contestants will be expected to perform in teams while demonstrating individual technical skills. The contest will include an oral presentation demonstrating the student's ability to communicate with others, a hands-on skills demonstration, and a one hour time allotted written examination.
Technical Drafting
This contest evaluates contestant's preparation for employment and recognizes outstanding students for excellence and professionalism in the field of technical drafting. The contest will focus on the solution of industry-developed problems by applying appropriate technical drafting skills and tools including computer-aided drafting (CAD).
Telecommunications Cabling
For students interested in voice and data network cabling and installation. This competition tests to worldwide industry standards for data and voice connections, physical and logical networks and signal transmission. Contestants demonstrate skills in reading network design documentation, parts list set- up and purchase, pulling and mounting cable, choosing wiring closets, patch panel installation and termination, installing jacks and cable testing. Both CAT 5/6e and fiber optics cable are presented. The contest stresses safety and working effectively in group environments as well as customer service skills.
Television (Video) Production
Teams of two contestants are required to plan and shoot a one-minute VHS video on location to convey the "theme" of the event. Editing is done in the contest area with special emphasis on professional production of the video by industry standards, quality of audio and video, and adequate conveyance of the "theme" to the viewer.
Video Product Development
During the school year, teams of two produce a five to seven minute video that promotes one of the following: the positive aspects of a specific career/technical training program; the positive aspects of a specific career/technical school; or, the positive aspects of SkillsUSA. Team members are judged on their project planning, scripts, storyboards, camera techniques, editing, use of royalty-free music/sound/graphics, special effects, overall impressions, skill-related written test and interview. The on-site, hands-on portion of the competition requires each team to create a computerized storyboard of their project (video) using PowerProduction StoryBoard Quick software.
Web Design
The project will be for each team’s to complete a series of challenges, with a focus on web site usability and accessibility with at least one challenge related to scripting. Each challenge must be documented, clearly demonstrating the skills as outlined in the SkillsUSA Championships Technical Standards 2010.