Our team had the opportunity to judge state SkillsUSA competitions for Massachusetts and Vermont CTE students last month. We were all impressed with the student's creativity and professionalism. They worked collaboratively to meet the challenging requirements in innovative ways. Their presentations were almost as important as the functionality of their designs, and we were pleased to see their strong presentation skills, even when performed virtually using technology that was new to some. Here's a view into the competitions:

Mechatronics

The competition format for Mechatronics has evolved over the years, but the goal has always been to recognize students for their skill development in industrial automation. Students had to build an electro-pneumatic system for this year's challenge, with relay logic from scratch. The second challenge required them to use a PLC to program a pick-and-place material handling operation. Congratulations to Blackstone Valley Technical High School for taking Gold at this years competition.

Additive Manufacturing

Students created weatherproof outlet covers with a hinged lid that protects a USB port, printed on a Stratasys 3D printer.

Precision Laser Engraving

Students had to design and create a trophy in this challenge, using two materials and incorporating engraving. There were various creative designs - one had lights, another had 3D items on it, and they came in different shapes. The winning design was then reproduced and handed out to competition winners!

Congratulations to every team for your work! We're rooting for the teams moving on to the national competitions!