Seven SkillsUSA members traveled to Mercer County Technical School Arthur R. Sypek Center in Trenton, N.J. on March 3 to compete in regional competitions ranging from job demonstration and interview to career pathways.

SkillsUSA members have been preparing for competitions since fall, according to math teacher and SkillsUSA adviser Deb Maher. Maher accompanied the members competing and was pleased with the results.

“I think it went great. All the competitors felt very positive after their events,” Maher said.

Although students did not find out the results from their competitions that will determine if they qualify for the state level, many members are already excited for their competitions next year. Junior Julia Dwight of Atlantic Highlands, who competed in Job Interview, enjoyed her first competition as a SkillsUSA member.

“It was really fun. I ended up meeting people from all over the region, and everyone there was just so nice. I definitely would love to go back next year,” Dwight said.

Other SkillsUSA members also enjoyed their time competing, and for senior Mark DiSpigna of Lincroft, wished they had more time to participate.

“I wish I would have joined Skills(USA) when I was a sophomore because now I understand the thrill of competing,” DiSpigna said. “One takeaway I’ve gotten from this awesome experience is to definitely try and find a similar organization in college,” DiSpigna said.

Other SkillsUSA members will also be competing in different competitions at the Garden State Exhibit Center in Somerset, N.J. on March 11 and April 8.