Prince Frederick, MD – Students from Calvert County Public Schools’ Career & Technology Academy (CTA) earned national recognition at the 2025 SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference, held June 16–20 in Atlanta, Georgia. Competing against over 6,000 career and technical education students nationwide, these SkillsUSA national winners secured medals and top 10 finishes, showcasing exceptional technical and leadership abilities.
Three CTA students emerged as medalists, earning prestigious awards in their respective events. Oliver Fox took second place in Firefighting, demonstrating mastery in high-pressure scenarios. Dwight Brooks and Liam McGowan secured third place in Audio Radio Production, highlighting their expertise in media arts. These SkillsUSA national winners were honored during the closing ceremony, celebrated by thousands for their elite performances.
Two additional CTA teams achieved top 10 placements. Charlee Lewis, Gianna LiCalzi, and Jalena Mason earned sixth place in Outstanding Chapter, reflecting their leadership in community and chapter activities. Kayla Freeman, Alvani Generillo, and Kathryn Phillips also placed sixth in Crime Scene Investigation, showcasing precision and teamwork in a simulated forensic challenge. These results underscore the strength of CTA’s SkillsUSA program, a cornerstone of Calvert County’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) offerings.
The road to becoming SkillsUSA national winners required months of rigorous preparation. “The work these students put in behind the scenes was incredible,” said Sarah Jones, lead advisor for CTA’s SkillsUSA chapter. “They didn’t just learn how to perform tasks; they learned how to problem-solve, lead, and thrive under pressure. Seeing them succeed at this level is what SkillsUSA is all about.” The dedication of these students reflects the program’s emphasis on real-world skills and professional readiness.
SkillsUSA Nationals features over 100 competitions, each designed to mirror industry standards. Events test technical proficiency, critical thinking, and collaboration, preparing students for careers in fields like firefighting, media production, and criminal justice. For CTA students, the experience provided not only recognition but also practical skills and industry-aligned credentials. Principal Carrie Akins emphasized the broader impact: “It’s powerful to watch our students step into these national arenas and show that they belong. Their achievements are more than just medals. They’re proof that hands-on learning and CTE change lives. Our students are leaving high school not only with confidence, but with credentials, experience, and direction.”
The success of these SkillsUSA national winners highlights the strength of Calvert County Public Schools’ CTE initiatives. Under the leadership of Acting Superintendent Dr. Susan Johnson, the district continues to prioritize hands-on learning. The CTA’s achievements at the 2025 conference build on a legacy of excellence, with past students also earning national honors. The program’s focus on practical skills ensures graduates are prepared for immediate employment or further education.
For students like Fox, Brooks, McGowan, and their teammates, the SkillsUSA experience is transformative. The competition not only validates their technical abilities but also builds confidence and leadership. As SkillsUSA national winners, they join a network of accomplished professionals, with opportunities to connect with industry leaders and peers. The event, attended by thousands, offered unforgettable memories and a platform to showcase Calvert County’s talent.
With three medals and two top 10 finishes, CTA’s performance at the 2025 SkillsUSA Nationals reinforces the value of CTE. As industries increasingly demand skilled workers, programs like SkillsUSA prepare students to meet those needs. For Calvert County, these SkillsUSA national winners represent a bright future for both the students and the community.
