Atlanta, GA – Two local CA BOCES Audio Visual Production students, Jadyn Ours and Nick Austin (Olean City School District), earned first place in the TV Production category at the SkillsUSA National Competition, competing against 40 teams from across the country.
The SkillsUSA events are competitive events showcasing the best career and technical education students in the nation. Contests begin locally and continue through the state and national levels. Key areas of competition include communication, construction, heavy equipment operation, Audio Visual Production, welding, animal sciences, health sciences, hospitality and tourism, human services, information technology, leadership, manufacturing, and STEM.
Prior to the national competition, the team first secured victory at the regional level at Alfred State College, followed by a state championship win in Syracuse, New York.
CA BOCES District Superintendent, Scott Payne, said he is proud of the efforts of the students and staff involved in preparation for Skills USA. “This accomplishment achieved by Jadyn and Nick is extraordinary. Their win highlights what is possible for each student who shows up to each of our centers every day with dedication and purpose. CA BOCES is proud of both, and we will continue to cheer them on through their future endeavors.”
CA BOCES Assistant Superintendent for Career and Technical Education, Chris Gagliardo, said that Skills USA provides an opportunity for students apply the skills learned in their CTE program in a competitive environment. “Their performance at the national level highlighted the strength of Career and Technical Education programs and the dedication of students who pursue hands-on, industry-focused learning. Both students proudly represented CA BOCES and their home school, Olean High School, showcasing professionalism and technical excellence in a real-world production environment.”
Following the competition, Ours and Austin, along with CA BOCES Audio Visual Production instructor, Cory Nedell, were greeted with a community gathering at the CTE Center at Olean.
As the regional leader in education services, CA BOCES offers state-of-the-art programs for learners of all ages and abilities as well as cost-effective shared services for 22 component school districts. CA BOCES empowers students to achieve their maximum potential by offering a wide variety of innovative programs and support that include special education, career and technical education, adult and continuing education, technology support, and instructional support services. To learn more, visit www.caboces.org.