SkillsUSA, a nationwide organization, works to assist students in becoming skilled workplace professionals. Last Sept., senior Rylee Martellaro attended the Washington Leadership Training Institute conference that SkillsUSA hosts as the sole representative from the Amarillo Independent School District.
“This event takes place in Washington DC once a year and SkillsUSA district officers from all around the US are invited to attend to learn how to help build their leadership skills and how to better run their districts during their term,” Martellaro said.
The event takes place over a span of four days with many activities and learning opportunities occurring within those days. Martellaro is the only officer in this district, causing her to have this opportunity.
“This required me to step out of my comfort zone and go out to talk to people as well as study things about the organization I didn’t think I had to know as an officer,” Martellaro said.
She went with her teacher, Isaac Bernal, who teaches the AutoTech class at AmTech.
“I had never in my life imagined that I would have the opportunity to go to D.C. and meet so many amazing people and see so many astonishing things,” Martellaro said.
She learned many things and received the Washington Statesmen Award. This conference gave many teenagers across America the chance to learn and grow.
“I feel that the opportunity gives our students a sense of ownership, pride and purpose in making a difference for future generations,” Bernal said.
While only one person went this year, this conference does happen annually, which gives future SkillsUSA members the opportunity to run for office so that they can go to this event.
“I feel that this will inspire other students/advisors in our district to get involved, take ownership, and join a CTSO, like SkillsUSA, to make a difference,” Bernal said. “Our district can become further known for its strong future leaders and advocates, skilled students who can lay down a pathway for advancement and innovation for future generations, ensuring future success for themselves and others.”
AISD has many valuable and skilled students representing them throughout many fields. AmTech offers many opportunities for students to grow including things like SkillsUSA.
“I plan to pass on this knowledge to the future officers who will come after my term in hopes they will use it to better our district,” Martellaro said.
