History
Skills USA was established in 1999 and five years ago the name changed from VICA or Vocational Industrial Clubs of America to Skills USA. There are 10 members in Skills USA this year.
Activities
Skills USA have activities like open shop, repairing cars or trucks for the public at majorly discounted prices which they do as a fundraiser, and holding a car bash during homecoming week. In open shop the Skills USA active paid members are able to bring in their own vehicles after school from 2:30-5 P.M., and use the auto shop tools to fix their vehicles. They can also get advice from the instructor.
Meetings
Informal meetings are Tuesdays and Thursdays. And if they have formal meetings they are on Fridays. At these meetings they discuss Skills USA, competitions, community activities involving, and work on vehicles for people for discount prices.
Competitions
At competitions they have three stages: regional, state, and national. There are two levels: Beginner and Automotive Advance. Beginner level is auto maintenance in which you have less than 360 hours of instruction. Automotive Advance is students who have over 360 hours of instruction. Each level has 2-3 students in it. The students who come in first at regionals and state go onto nationals. In the hands-on competition is based on knowing how to use a digital volt meter, replacing brake components, mounting and dismounting tires, using computer on-board diagnostics, using precision measuring tools, and building and testing electronic currents. Written ASE tests are based on theroy and diagnostics.
State and Nation Information Website
National: http://www.skillsusa.org/
