SCC hosts thriving 13th Region SkillsUSA competition, showcasing local talent

Published on Mar 3, 2025

On February 14, 2025, Somerset Community College's (SCC) Laurel Campus proudly hosted the 13th Region SkillsUSA Competition, showcasing the skills and talents of students that are in welding, construction, automotive, electrical and several business and professional areas from six regional schools.

The competition welcomed eight participating schools: Clay County ATC, Jackson County ATC, Rockcastle County ATC, Corbin ATC, Knox County ATC, Whitley County ATC, Bell County ATC and Laurel CFI, with a remarkable total of 110 contestants competing for top honors.

Ryan Moore, Skills Regional Coordinator, Kimberly Woodall, Skills USA Kentucky Director and Chris Hall, Associate Dean Career and Technical Education SCC, worked collaboratively to allow the competition to be hosted at the Somerset Community College Laurel South Campus.

Jeff Abner SCC’s Associate Professor of Welding Technology explains the importance of the event.

“Many SCC Dual Credit students and future SCC students competed. However, this event is a leadership skill-building opportunity where students can show off their skills in multiple programs for the future of our communities,” Abner said.

Many of the high school students were dual-credit students, earning college credits in technical programs through Somerset Community College.

Taylor Alvey, a dual credit student in construction from Clay County Highschool, finds the dual credit class fun for her.

“People should join dual credit because it’s fun,” Alvey said. “You can get free college hours and more girls need to consider technical classes. They are fun.”

Noah Hubbard, an 11th grader from Clay County ATC competed in welding skills.

“These classes teach us a lot,” Hubbard said. “I plan on working in this industry after high school.”

Maddix Johnson, another 11th-grade welding student from Rockcastle County High School chimed in.

“These skills will help us in the real world when we graduate, whether fixing our things when they break or pursuing this as a career,” Johnson said. “I enjoy these dual-credit classes.”

Sebastian Danniels, Elijah Howard and Bailey Pridemore from Corbin ATC High School competed in automotive skills at the event last week. When asked what the best part of their dual credit classes were, they all had their future on their mind.

“Knowing that when I get out of high school, I’ll already have a lot of the credits I need for automotive or diesel is the best part,” Danniels said.

“These classes are preparing me for my future,” Howard noted.

Pridemore emphasized, “These classes give me a head start on my future.”

Hall was proud to see schools from this region in KY utilize the SCC Laurel Campus.

“In organizing this competition at Laurel South, we not only provided students with access to essential tools and equipment but also created an environment where collaboration and innovation could thrive,” Hall said. “Our dedicated SCC faculty and staff worked tirelessly to prepare, ensuring everything was in place for a successful event.”

The event was a resounding success, thanks to the collaboration and commitment of all involved. We invite you to view pictures from the event here.

To learn more about high school students getting involved with dual-credit classes through SCC, contact the Dual Credit Coordinator.