For those of you who may not know, within the BOCES program, there is a club called SkillsUSA. SkillsUSA is a student-led organization that prepares students for the world of work, and makes us become skilled professionals and career-ready leaders as well as responsible community members. To join SkillsUSA, you must first join a BOCES CTE program and then you may speak with your instructor about joining. 

On Nov. 2 to 4, students from all over New York state came to Albany to enhance their leadership skills. Participants stayed at the Desmond Hotel in Albany, New York to participate in workshops, leadership training, and team building activities to develop skills, plan community service projects, and strengthen their local chapters. 

This year, the conference had over 392 participants. We attended break out room sessions and met students from around the state. Personally, I met people from Long Island, Ulster County, Rockland County, Queens, Syracuse, Rochester and more. We had the opportunity to speak with the state officers for the club, as well as the state director for SkillsUSA: New York. We also had the chance to go on a tour with our breakout room groups to the state capitol building. 

To me, SkillsUSA is not just a club. It is a way to make a difference, meet new people, and help out the community. SkillsUSA is a place for everyone. It was a pleasure getting to know everyone and learning new things about the club as well as learning more about myself. I truly hope to come back next year as a state officer for the club.