Morning Star Rotary welcomed Andy Hammer, Executive Director of SkillsUSA Council to our February 12, 2026 meeting. SkillsUSA is a nonprofit national association serving middle-school, high-school and college/postsecondary students and their teachers. Andy spoke about the organization's impact on career and technical education for high school students. He shared his personal story and emphasized the importance of making a positive impact. SkillsUSA, founded in 1965, has a local chapter in the Lehigh Valley that was established in 1985.
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The organization impacts many students annually through competitions, networking events, and professional development opportunities. SkillsUSA focuses on developing students' personal, workplace, and technical skills, with a particular emphasis on communication and attendance. Andy spoke to how SkillsUSA has evolved to meet the needs of Generation Z students, who seek stability, work-life balance, and flexibility in their careers. He gave examples of successful student outcomes and the organization's role in preparing students for various career paths, including traditional trades and technical fields.
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