News Summary
Students from Unaka High School, Elizabethton High School, and Happy Valley High School achieved remarkable success at the SkillsUSA state competition in Chattanooga. Notably, Elijah Stines of Unaka won a gold medal in collision repair technology, while Princess Russell of Elizabethton secured first place in public speaking. With multiple students earning medals and qualifications for national competitions, this event highlighted the importance of vocational education in shaping successful futures.
Chattanooga, TN – Local students from Unaka High School, Elizabethton High School, and Happy Valley High School excelled at the SkillsUSA state competition held in Chattanooga from April 13-16, 2025. Unaka High School’s Elijah Stines secured a gold medal in the collision repair technology category, showcasing remarkable skills in a competitive field.
Elizabethton High School demonstrated a strong presence with 18 students participating in the competition, yielding a total of six medals. Among the notable achievements, Princess Russell won first place in public speaking and will represent her school at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta this summer. Her Health Occupations Professional Portfolio, which includes her resume and evaluation of her presentation skills, will be a focal point of her national-level competition.
In addition to Russell’s accomplishments, eight Elizabethton High School students received FFA (Future Farmers of America) state degrees, showcasing their dedication to agricultural education. Furthermore, one student performed commendably, finishing second in the FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) state competition, earning the chance to compete at the national level next month.
The Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Elizabethton also had a strong showing with four students winning collegiate-level medals at the SkillsUSA competition. The TCAT Elizabethton team particularly excelled in power equipment technology, taking both first and second place in the category.
Happy Valley High School also contributed to the event’s success, with Nathaniel Nickles capturing second place in the SkillsUSA Welding Sculpture contest. His project, which featured a tomahawk embedded in a log, was the result of over 100 hours of meticulous work using various welding techniques and materials. Additionally, a team from Happy Valley High School consisting of Brad Atkins, Austin Ayers, and Lane Kyte placed fourth for their innovative fabrication of a rocket stove, which included design scaling, cutting, and a functional cooking area.
Recognizing Achievements
The accomplishments of local students at this year’s SkillsUSA competition reflect their outstanding skills and dedication to their chosen fields. Elijah Stines from Unaka High School emerged as a significant competitor, demonstrating exceptional talent in collision repair technology. His success serves as an inspiration to his peers and highlights the importance of technical education in preparing students for future careers.
Elizabethton High School’s achievements, including Russell’s prominence in public speaking and other students earning FFA degrees and FBLA accolades, showcase the diverse opportunities available to students involved in vocational training and extracurricular activities. Princess Russell’s journey from the Philippines to a competitive national platform has also drawn attention, with her background and commitment to community service through volunteering at a nursing home influencing her ambition to pursue a career in pediatrics.
Future Competitions and Opportunities
As these students prepare for further competitions, including the national SkillsUSA event in Atlanta, they exemplify the benefits of vocational training programs in shaping successful futures. Local educators and institutions emphasize the importance of practical skills alongside academic knowledge, fostering environments where students can thrive in various career pathways.
The SkillsUSA state competition not only celebrates individual accomplishments but also serves as a benchmark for the overall effectiveness of educational programs in the region. The impressive performances by students from Unaka, Elizabethton, and Happy Valley High Schools underscore the potential for future growth and achievement within their respective fields.
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Additional Resources
- Elizabethton High School Students Succeed in State SkillsUSA
- Wikipedia: SkillsUSA
- TCAT Elizabethton Medalists in State SkillsUSA Competition
- Google Search: SkillsUSA
- Elizabethton Teen’s Journey to Success in SkillsUSA
- Google Scholar: SkillsUSA
- Johnson City Press: Helene
- Encyclopedia Britannica: SkillsUSA
- Local Students Compete in State Leadership and Skills Conference
- Google News: SkillsUSA
