SALISBURY, N.C. – Four students from Rowan-Cabarrus Community College earned national honors at the 2025 SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference, held June 23-27 in Atlanta, Georgia. As the nation’s largest workforce development event for students, the conference drew more than 16,000 participants and featured over 100 technical and leadership competitions that mirror real-world job demands and industry standards. Competing among the top career and technical students in the country, the Rowan-Cabarrus team brought home one gold medal, two silver medals and an additional top-ten placement.
“Our students not only competed, but they also represented Rowan-Cabarrus with excellence,” said Rowan-Cabarrus President Dr. Carol S. Spalding. “Their achievements send a powerful message about the quality of education here and the future of our skilled workforce. We celebrate their achievements and the example they set for future students.”
Rowan-Cabarrus medalists included:
- Nathan Connelly – Gold, Sheet Metal
- Emmalyn Sides – Silver, Masonry
- Adam Crow – Silver, Industrial Motor Control
- Tyler Arbeen – Ninth place, Electrical Construction Wiring
Faculty and staff from Rowan-Cabarrus who attended the conference to support students included Chair of Construction Technologies Programs Joe Christie; SkillsUSA Coordinator and Advisor Jon Crockett; Program Chair of Information Technology, Networking and Cybersecurity Aimee Durham; and Faculty Advisors Christopher Belch, James Hauss and Larry Newcomb.
“These students have earned national recognition through hard work, talent and determination,” said Vice President of Academic Programs Dr. Michael Quillen. “Their success showcases the power of a hands-on education and the strength of our technical programs in helping students turn their skills into meaningful careers.”
SkillsUSA, the leading workforce development organization for students, is a nonprofit dedicated to preparing middle school, high school and college students for careers in trade, technical and skilled service occupations. SkillsUSA empowers students to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders and responsible community members. For more information about SkillsUSA, visit www.skillsusa.org.
For more information about Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, visit lpeqoa.chinadomestic.com or call 704-216-7222.