CHERRY VALLEY – State Senator Dave Syverson (R-Cherry Valley) is congratulating students from the 35th Senate District on their outstanding performances at this year’s National Workforce Development Competition.
“I’m incredibly proud of these students for their impressive performances on the national stage. They’re not just bringing home medals; they’re proving the value of hard work, hands-on training, and technical excellence. Programs like SkillsUSA are preparing the next generation of mechanics, entrepreneurs, and skilled tradespeople who will keep our communities running and our economy strong,” said Senator Syverson.
These students have earned not only bragging rights but also national recognition for competing against some of the most talented career and technical education students from across the country. Events in the competition included bricklaying, engine repair, hairdressing, and more.
Student winners from the 35th District include:
- Mary Schirmer of Marengo Community High School – Bronze in Automotive Refinishing Technology
- Aleah Sauder of Waubonsee Community College – Gold in Automotive Refinishing Technology
- Joshua Stover of Waubonsee Community College – Gold in Automotive Service Technology
- Benjamin Swanson of Waubonsee Community College – Bronze in Collision Damage Appraisal
- Briana Harris, Sarah Pawlus, Kevin Bustamante Fontanel, and Ennis Ballines of Waubonsee Community College – Gold in the Entrepreneurship Team competition
SkillsUSA programming is supported by a state grant through the Illinois Works Pre-Apprenticeship Program, awarded to the Youth Workforce Development Foundation, the managing arm of SkillsUSA Illinois. The organization plans to expand its successful programming into additional schools and communities starting this fall.