Beau Keller, a senior in the Precision Machining program at Knox County Career Center, earned Silver (2nd place) in CNC 2-Axis Turning Programmer at the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference held June 1-5 in Atlanta, Georgia, the organization announced.
Keller qualified for the national competition by placing first in the state competition earlier in May. "The only person who can shape the future is you, so take pride in your work and do your best no matter what. SkillsUSA is a great opportunity for young adults to prove their skills through competition. I would encourage anyone who can compete to do so because it will open great opportunities in your career," according to Keller.
Joe LaFevre, Precision Machining instructor at Knox County Career Center, said, "As usual, the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference did not disappoint. I am proud of SkillsUSA for their part in supporting the trades and the opportunities they provide for these students. I’m also proud of Ohio’s representation. It is with such honor that I get to be a tiny part of the inter-workings of such a great event. I am so proud of Beau and I am beyond thankful to be a part of his journey through life, especially seeing his hard work pay off on such a high level."
The National Leadership & Skills Conference is described as the largest gathering of America’s future skilled workforce and recognizes excellence in career and technical education. The week-long event brings together more than 19,000 attendees each June in Atlanta, including students, instructors, industry partners, government officials, administrators and others.
A highlight of the conference is the SkillsUSA Championships, where over 6,500 state champions compete for national gold, silver and bronze medals across 114 skilled and leadership competitions.
