Students from TJ came together and won gold medals as well as titles. photo courtesy of Jonathan Howard
SkillsUSA showcases abilities and forms lasting connections.
The SkillsUSA Colorado State Leadership and Skills Conference (SLSC), held April 7-9 in Pueblo, brought together students from across the state to showcase their talents, test their skills, and celebrate the power of career and technical education. Among those in attendance was the Thomas Jefferson High School team, whose students not only competed across multiple events, but also left a lasting impression of leadership, camaraderie, and achievement.
For many participants, the conference was about more than medals; it was about connection. Thomas Jefferson’s chapter advisor, CTE teacher Jonathan Howard, reflected on the experience as a whole, emphasizing the sense of unity that defined the trip. “It was very exciting to see students successful in their competitions and having a good time as a community group,” he said. That balance of competition and community is at the heart of SkillsUSA, and in Pueblo, it was on full display.
Students echoed that sentiment. Junior Brooklyn Darden, one of TJ’s competitors, described the experience as both social and memorable. “What I found to be the most fun part was hanging out with all my friends.” While downtime often meant relaxing in a hotel room, it also created space for bonding through shared meals, late-night conversations, and watching favorite shows together. These moments helped strengthen friendships and build a sense of belonging that extended beyond the competition floor.
Still, the competitive spirit remained strong. Students spent months preparing for their respective events, and that dedication paid off in both performance and pride. Howard noted how impressed he was not only by the results, but by the effort behind them. “I was proud that everyone was helping each other and having a good time,” he said. “There was a good sense of community. I was proud that the students had prepared for competitions really well and showed off their skills.”
One of the most memorable aspects of the conference came during the awards ceremony, where students from across Colorado were recognized for their excellence. For Thomas Jefferson, this moment carried even greater significance. Six students were appointed as state officers, an extraordinary accomplishment that marked the first time nearly an entire state officer team came from a single school chapter. Darden was among those selected, with her job as Treasurer, alongside juniors Angus Dryden (President), Vivienne Hill (Vice President), Meriem Sadkhi (Secretary), Archana George (Parliamentarian), and Alexander Bills (Historian).
“I felt proud watching all of my peers get awards and be appointed as state officers,” Darden said. “It was amazing to see that happen.” Howard shared in that pride, calling the leadership appointments a highlight of the trip and a reflection of the students’ dedication and character.
Beyond the awards, students also gained perspective. Darden noted that one of the most surprising aspects of the conference was the sheer amount of participation and achievement. “Just how many awards they give and how much of a student body that SkillsUSA Colorado has,” she said. “And how many people are dedicated to the things they want to compete in.” For many attendees, seeing hundreds of peers equally passionate about their craft was both humbling and motivating.
Of course, not every outcome was perfect. Some competitions didn’t go as planned, offering valuable lessons for the future. Darden acknowledged this honestly, expressing some disappointment in her Quiz Bowl performance while maintaining a positive attitude. That mindset – learning from setbacks while celebrating successes – is a key part of the SkillsUSA experience.
Looking ahead, both students and advisors see opportunities for growth. Howard encouraged underclassmen to get involved early, suggesting that exposure during sophomore year can build confidence and skill over time. “If they really get into it early, then they could really compete and pour themselves into it junior and senior year,” he provided.
Darden offered similar advice, urging students not to hesitate. “Try something new,” she urged. “If there’s a competition you want to do, just do it, because you could place. You don’t know.” Her words capture the spirit of SkillsUSA at its core: taking risks, embracing challenges, discovering potential, and most of all, having fun!
As the conference concluded, the TJ team returned home not only with awards and titles, but with stronger bonds and a renewed sense of purpose. The three days in Pueblo were a reminder that success isn’t measured solely by medals, but by growth, leadership, and the connections formed along the way.
