ABERDEEN, S.D. – When Aberdeen Central seniors Porter Kolb and Conner Miller decided to enter the SkillsUSA competition for the first time, they had no idea it would take them all the way to the national stage.
“It was just the state competition,” explained Kolb, adding that it was only a three-hour drive away.
But then Kolb won first place in Auto Service Technology, and Miller won first place in Auto Maintenance and Light Repair. Suddenly, they were heading to nationals.
This summer, Kolb and Miller traveled to Atlanta, Georgia, to participate in the Nationals SkillsUSA competition, held June 23-27.
The national competition was a much more massive event, held at the Atlanta Falcons stadium and the 2 million-square-foot Olympic Center.
“It was pretty crazy,” Kolb said. “I think they said 18,000 people were there—the biggest turnout they had yet.”
The competition included a large vendor fair, as well as companies recruiting for different jobs. This was the students’ first time in Atlanta, and they also got to visit sites near the competition location, including the World of Coca-Cola Museum.
Both students enjoyed the overall experience, but they won’t be competing again this school year because they’re planning to graduate early.
After high school, Kolb plans to go into agricultural diesel. Miller plans to get a job in town, potentially at Lust Auto Body, where he is currently interning.
They students said taking classes at Central’s ATEC Academy has helped lead to their success. Miller said it gave them the opportunity to gain a lot of experience working in the auto shop.
“ATEC gives you the ability to try out a lot of different fields for a semester, see what you like, and see what you can learn from it,” Kolb said.
To other students considering entering the SkillsUSA competition, they offered advice.
“Just try your hardest and don’t let other people get to you,” Miller said.
“Just do it,” Kolb said. “You’re probably not going to regret it. Even if you don’t love it, you’re not going to regret it.”
About ATEC Academy
ATEC Academy, located at CHS, offers advanced technical and specialized courses that prepare students for college and/or careers. Learn more by visiting the ATEC Academy webpage.
About the Aberdeen Public School District
The Aberdeen Public School District provides a comprehensive educational program to approximately 4,200 students in grades K-12, with a mission of empowering all students to succeed in a changing world. Our students receive the knowledge and skills necessary to reach their potential in a global community through high expectations of academic achievement; diverse educational opportunities; and community involvement in a safe, supportive environment. Learn more at aberdeen.k12.sd.us.