Texas SkillsUSA will hold its 6th annual District 12 Conference at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi on Wednesday, Oct. 26 in the University Center, Lone Star Ballroom.

Texas SkillsUSA, a non-profit youth organization which facilitates trade and industrial education, involves nearly 15,500 student and professional members who are enrolled in high school trade and industrial programs. Texas SkillsUSA brings together educators, administrators, corporate America, labor organizations, trade associations and government in a coordinated effort to address the nation’s need for a globally competitive, educated and skilled work force.

Registration will begin at 8 a.m. and the opening session will begin at 10 a.m. with University greetings from Vice President for Student Affairs Dr. Eliot Chenaux. State Representative Gene Seaman will make a special presentation to the students about career and technology education initiatives in the Texas Legislature and Janet Conner, executive director for SkillsUSA’s Texas Association, will bring special greetings from the state office. After lunch, students will attend leadership training sessions related to teamwork and communication skills.

“This is a proven system that enhances curriculum and produces quality-trained, well-rounded, entry-level employees,” said Dr. Phillip McEndree, associate professor of education at A&M-Corpus Christi. “Skills learned during the sessions will provide students with the leadership qualities needed to gain the competitive edge essential for success in the work force. Teachers will benefit as well by enhancing their Career and Technology Education programs, improved attitudes in the classroom and gain support and participation from local business.” 

District 12 of Texas SkillsUSA includes schools from the Laredo, Eagle Pass, Kingsville, Alice, Beeville, Victoria as well and Corpus Christi. Each year about 300 high school students attend the conference.