Annual Report 2015-2016 Report to the Community | Page 4

Program of Work Our “Program of Work” describes a series of yearlong events and workshops that teach our students employability and job readiness skills through practice. Close to 1,500 students actively participate in SkillsUSA Council programs, trainings, and activities that were conducted in and out of school. Leadership By Example Breakfast The Leadership By Example Breakfast recognizes the work of an individual in our community who exemplifies the principles we instill in our students and promotes the value of career and technical education. It also provides an opportunity for the Council to reflect on the successes of the previous year and share goals for the coming year with our members. This year Bryan Gault, President of Wind Gap Chevrolet-Buick, was honored as our “Leader By Example”. Mr. Gault is a current SkillsUSA Council Board Member and Council Past President. Bryan has continuously showed support of the Council and Career & Technical Education. Also honored was Dave Howard with the Volunteer of the Year Award. He plays an instrumental role in the District Championships as a site director at Ag-Hall. Emma Wortman, from Career Institute of Technology, was the student speaker and shared her experiences with SkillsUSA and how they had a positive impact on her. Ambassador Training & Professional Development Conference Ambassador Training prepared students to serve their schools and the community upholding the principles of SkillsUSA. During this overnight training, select students receive specialized instruction on communication, public speaking, and promoting SkillsUSA. They were also tasked with preparing for and helping with the Professional Development Conference. The Professional Development Conference provided students with intensive training in essential employment and leadership skills. During this two-day, overnight event over 130 students attended workshops and seminars on topics such as dining etiquette, nonverbal communication, dressing for success, community service, and teamwork. It also provided a unique opportunity for students from all five area career and technical schools to interact and network. The career cluster sessions were particularly beneficial because students met area professionals in their future trade to get a real world view of what to expect when they enter the workforce. New this year was a keynote speaker, Tyrone Russell, Director of Multicultural Affairs for Lehigh University. This was a highlight of the conference for the students as he spoke about his life experiences and outcomes.