1. Basic Woods (S) (state only) 

2. Chapter Display (L)- Team of 3 

3. Extemporaneous Speaking (L)

4. Job Skill Demonstration (L)

5. Opening & Closing Ceremonies (L)- Team of 7 

6. Outstanding Chapter (L)- Team of 3

7. Pin Design (S)

8. Prepared Speech (L)

9. Promotional Bulletin Board (L)- Team of 3

10. Robotics: Urban search & rescue (S)- Team of 2

11. T-Shirt Design (S)

12. Team Engineering Challenge (S)- Team of 3

13. Woods Sculpture (L) (State only)

Competitors will use their drafting skills to solve an architectural problem. The problem includes a written test, framework interview and drawings that are computer-generated that will be timed. The remodel (PDF) will be saved on a flash drive provided by SkillsUSA MT, then submitted for judging. The competition tests the competitors’ problem-solving abilities, not simply CAD skills. A hand written job application will also be completed during contest. Competitor responsible for bringing own computer with own software, the computer must be able to connect to public WIFI, turn off all blockers. White polo shirts can be SkillsUSA Montana.

Competitors demonstrate the ability to perform skills based on the task list outlined by the National Institute for Automotive Excellence (ASE) and the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). The competition includes a series of workstations to assess skills in surface preparation, spray gun operation, paint mixing, matching and applying, solving paint applications problems, determining finish defects with an understanding of causes and cures, masking, and utilizing safety precautions. Competitors also complete an interview and an ASE written exam. The overall appearance of the finished products, speed and proper safety practices is judged.

The competition is consistent with the automobile technician task list outlined in guidelines published by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the ASE Education Foundation at: www.aseeducationfoundation.org. Competitors demonstrate their ability to perform jobs or skills selected from the standards mentioned above as determined by the SkillsUSA Championships technical committee. National clothing requirement is waived for SLSC: Clothing needs to be professional and sharp. Any identification of department, school, city, or state must be covered with tape and should be avoided if possible. Polo shirts can be SkillsUSA Montana. Tech standards clothing is waived, Clothing must be shop appropriate and safe. 

State competitors will not complete the S/P2 Automotive Safety and Automotive Pollution Prevention certifications. Note: Access to the S/P2 e-learning program is provided free of charge to national competitors that do not otherwise have access to the S/P2 platform. It is recommended for lessons throughout the year.

Stations:

Vehicle HVAC System Diagnosis and Testing -Students will identify components related to an automotive air conditioning system and answer questions related to the general understanding of system operation. Students will then be expected to perform a diagnosis of a simulated fault using a repair order, supplied service information, pressure gauges, DMM and thermometer readings. 

Vehicle Engine Performance Diagnosis & Testing -Students will diagnose and repair faults related to the engine control and emissions system. This includes drivability, MIL-ON, DTC and Engine Control Module related issues. Students will be expected to use basic diagnostic strategies to identify root cause, read schematics/wiring diagrams, correctly connect and use test equipment. 

Vehicle Body Electrical Diagnosis and Testing -Diagnose electrical circuits related to electrical circuits on a car. Students will be expected to read electrical wiring diagrams, correctly connect test equipment, and use diagnostic strategies to identify root causes. Station will have a bugged car with a repair order 

Tire/Wheel Service -Competitors will demonstrate their knowledge of wheel and tire fault and irregularity terminology; and will use a diagnostic balancer to perform wheel balancing and identify wheel assembly concerns. 

Environment, Health and Safety -Students demonstrate their knowledge of automotive work-related safety equipment, environmental issues, procedures and familiarity with SDS and PPE 

Electrical / Electronic Systems -Competitors will take resistance, voltage, and voltage drop measurements on an automotive lighting system trainer. Students will also demonstrate proper circuit construction from a wiring diagram incorporating all components of a normal circuit as well as circuit failure diagnosis. 

Job Interview -Competitors must bring at least two (2) printed copies of their resume to the orientation meeting. 

Steering and Suspension -Be familiar with and answer questions about steering and suspension components, tire information and wear patterns, wheel alignment procedures, printouts and diagnosis. Exhibit the ability to properly use printed reference materials and work orders/printouts. 

Brake Service & Diagnosis -Competitors will demonstrate their ability to inspect, service, and determine necessary action related to disc and drum brake systems. Part and component identification, inspection, measurement, disassembly and assembly may be required. 

Manual Drive Train Service and Diagnosis -Students will demonstrate their understanding of basic manual transmission/transaxle service, mechanical adjustments, parts identification, power flow, normal measurements and inspection. Removal and replacement of components may be required. 

Automatic Transmission Service -Students will demonstrate an understanding of basic automatic transmission service, parts identification, electrical measurements & operating values via diagnosis tools. Removal and replacement of components may be required. 

Engine Mechanical -Competitors will demonstrate their knowledge of the internal combustion gasoline engine by identification of various engine components and answering questions about engine mechanical operation. Competitors will use precision measuring tools and OEM Service Information to inspect various engine components. 

Competitors build a small cabinet or piece of furniture from the materials and drawings supplied. Competitors are expected to read the drawings, lay out, create cut list, and cut the parts using a variety of tools including, but not limited to: table saw, miter saw, drill, hinge boring machine and various hand tools. The parts must be accurately assembled, sanded and adjusted to tolerances specified by the judges. 2025 project CM *materials are subject to change* Clothing technical standards are waived- clothing must be shop appropriate and safe. All school, name or chapter identifiers must be covered with dark tape.

Competitors frame walls using wood and/or steel studs, cut and install rafters, gable end overhangs, fascia board and soffit installation, install sheathing and/or exterior siding and trim. Demonstration of knowledge of stairs is required. Competitors will be judged on accuracy, ability to read and interpret blueprints, workmanship, safety and the proper use of tools, equipment and materials. Dress lightly, competitors will be indoors. Clothing technical standards are waived- clothing must be shop appropriate and safe. All school, name or chapter identifiers must be covered with dark tape. 

Project will be a small shed with internal stairs. Carpentry Drawings for SLSC25 

Supplied by competitor: For Screws- T25 Driver Tips, Phillips #2 Driver tips + tech standards tool list.

Use of nails will still be permitted- please notify director if so. No points are deducted whether nails or screws are used, screws are preferred if the student does not have plans to take the project home by Sunday, it makes for breakdown of project easier and faster.

(Team of 6) Student teams demonstrate knowledge of parliamentary procedure in both a written exam and a team demonstration. The written exam covers questions related to materials found in Robert’s Rules of Order—Newly Revised. During the presentation, the team will demonstrate the running of a typical business meeting using a standard order of business. During the presentation, the team must properly insert into the order of business the secretary’s minutes, treasurer’s report and business items identified by the technical committee. In addition to the debate and transaction of the business items, teams will also properly demonstrate at least six different parliamentary procedure motions, including at least one of each of the following: main, privileged, subsidiary, incidental and motions that bring back issues to the floor. Minutes of the demonstration will be read by the secretary upon completion of the demonstration. Official dress is required.

(Team of 3) SkillsUSA student members build a three-dimensional display that articulates the annual SkillsUSA competition theme. The members of the chapter build the display and three students present information about the display during a presentation and interview with judges. PD online test required. Official dress is required.

The competition is consistent with expectations and competencies associated with collision repair center estimators (Blue Printers), insurance auto claim appraisers/adjusters and independent appraisers. Competitors demonstrate their ability to perform jobs and skills based on, but not limited to virtual appraisals, computerized estimating specific to frontal damage, unibody damage, light mechanical damage, rear damage including quarter panel replacement and total loss evaluations. The overall accuracy and quality of the finished products, efficiency and communication skills will be judged by industry professionals.

Competitors demonstrate their ability to perform jobs and skills based on the task list outlined by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the ASE Education Foundation. The competition includes a series of workstations to assess skills in the following areas: metal straightening, attachment methods, plastic repair and structural analysis. The overall appearance of the finished product, speed and proper safety practices are judged. There are written tests on estimating, structural analysis, and an ASE exam. The students fill out a job application, bring a resume, and go through a mock interview. Clothing needs to be professional and sharp. Any identification of department, school, city, or state must be covered and should be avoided if possible.

(Team of 3) Contestants will demonstrate basic skills associated with working a crime scene. Team members will take a test assessing overall crime scene knowledge. Team members will process a crime scene to include searching, identifying evidence, measuring, photographing, and preparing a sketch. Team members will also demonstrate basic crime scene skills such as lifting a fingerprint, swabbing serological evidence, packaging evidence or similar skills. The team will interpret common crime scene evidence such as classifying a fingerprint pattern. Finally, the team will complete narratives, crime logs and similar paperwork.

The following is a list of materials used in the formation of the competition: 

These are subject to change* rubrics will show detail of what should be expected for skill content: CSI important info 2025

• FBI Handbook of Forensic Services (2019): https://external-link.egnyte.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fbi.gov%2Ffile-repository%2Fhandbook-of-forensic-services-pdf.pdf%2Fview

• NIST Crime Scene Investigation — A Guide for Law Enforcement (2013): https://www.nist.gov/system/files/documents/forensics/Crime-Scene-Investigation.pdf

 • Criminal Investigation by Thomas Brown from Open Educational Resources (2022): https://external-link.egnyte.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.oercommons.org%2Fcourses%2Fcriminal-investigation

Supplied by the competitors: new bring only list

a.  Crime scene kit containing materials necessary to conduct a crime scene investigation.

 At a minimum: 1). Digital Camera (not a cell phone) with removable media card 

2). PPE to include safety glasses, mask/face shield, shoe covers, and non-latex examination gloves (Tyvek optional but not recommended)

3) Measuring device (laser measuring device or tape measure) 

4). Scale (preferably an ‘L’ shaped scale)

 5). Sterile swabs and swab boxes 

6). Water in dispenser bottle/dropper (should be distilled but can be tap) 

7). Sharpie 

8). Sketching kit 

9). Tweezers 

10). Small pocket notebook for field notes 

11). Pens and #2 pencils 

12). Flashlight

Dark blue polo shirts can be SkillsUSA Montana.

For students preparing to be police officers or to work in other areas of criminal justice. Typically, this competition will utilize both written examination and practical exercises to evaluate the competitors’ abilities and knowledge of the field. The competitors are scored on their knowledge and application of U.S. Constitutional Law, written and verbal communications skills, and their ability to handle an entry-level law enforcement position.

 The following is a list of materials used in the formation of the competition:

These are subject to change* rubrics will show detail of what should be expected for skill content:  CJ information SLSC 

 ● Eyewitness Evidence: A Trainer's Manual for Law Enforcement: https://nij.ojp.gov/library/publications/eyewitness-evidence-trainers-manual-lawenforcement

 ● Criminal Justice: An Overview of the System: https://external-link.egnyte.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.oercommons.org%2Fcourses%2Fcriminal-justice-an-overview-of-the-system%2Fview

Dark blue polo shirts can be SkillsUSA Montana.

(Team of 2) The competition is open to active SkillsUSA members enrolled in programs with Cyber Security, Information Security, or Systems and Networking Security Architecture as occupational objectives. Students will be tested on the elements of the NIST Publication 800-181 Cybersecurity Workforce Framework categories including Securely Provision, Operate and Maintain, and Protect and Defend. This competition's skill performance stations are created to be part of a "scouting combine" where teams will demonstrate a wide range of skillsets needed in Cyber Security industry. This scouting combine will assess a team's knowledge and skills in a series of individual stations that will be totaled to determine the team's overall score. The contest consists of progressive timed units. *Student needs a non restricted email, school email will not work they have to many blockers, Student needs the username and password for email on hand. Students will receive a invite conformation email ahead of SLSC, they must accept the invite to compete at SLSC. White polo shirts can be SkillsUSA Montana.

Competitors cycle through up to ten stations testing and troubleshooting engines, electrical and electronics systems, powertrain systems including chassis, transmissions and carriers. Competitors demonstrate skills in precision measurements with a micrometer, hydraulic systems and schematic, vehicle inspections, live engine, fundamental failure analysis, brake systems, air-conditioning systems and general shop skills. Competitors also perform a job interview and complete a online technical test. Clothing technical standards are waived- clothing must be shop appropriate and safe. Clothing needs to be professional and sharp. Any identification of department, school, city, or state must be covered with tape and should be avoided if possible. Polo shirts can be SkillsUSA Montana.

Stations 2025:

Precision Measurement

Live Engine

Drive Axel

Shop Skills tool identification

Operator Environment HVAC

Job Interview (Oral Professional Assessment)

Hydraulics

The competition requires competitors to give a three- to five-minute speech on an assigned topic with five minutes of advance preparation. Competitors enter the preparation area one at a time, where they are given a speech topic. They are judged on voice, mechanics, platform deportment, organization and effectiveness. The reference materials used in this competition can be found in the SkillsUSA Educational Store which include: SkillsUSA Member Handbook and SkillsUSA Framework Fundamentals Cards: Framework Fundamentals: Teaching Strategies for Essential Elements/TG -Official dress is required. PD online test is required.

The competition evaluates the competitor’s preparation for firefighting careers through hands-on skill demonstrations and both written and oral presentations. Areas tested include safety; breathing apparatus; fire streams; ladders, ropes, knots and hoses; fire control; ventilation; emergency medical care and rescue; and protecting fire cause evidence. See attached rubrics for competition details. Firefighter station Rubrics Students will work with a local Fire Department to have proper training and sign off to do this competition. Competitors must train through a local fire department, sign a junior firefighter application contract and be a current SkillsUSA member, documents will be required at registration. JFF Application here - Hard copy of resume required for interview portion.

Evaluates a competitor's ability to perform procedures or take appropriate action based on scenarios presented related to CPR (Adult/AED, 2-man system, child and infant CPR) first aid medical emergencies such as seizure, bleeding, closed fracture, choking, shock, oral assessment. See attached rubrics for competition details. There is also a written exam. All skills are judged on nationally accepted standards identified by The American Red Cross, The American Heart Association, The American Safety and Health Institute and The National Safety Council. Must have a basic CPR/first aid card at registration check in to qualify for contest. Scrubs of any color are accepted-any school or company logo must be taped over for competition. First Aid/CPR Rubrics 

(Culinary)-The competition will encompass both hot and cold food preparation and presentation. Competitors will demonstrate their knowledge and skills through the production of menu items meeting industry standards. The competitors are evaluated on organization, knife skills, cooking techniques, creative presentation, sanitation and food safety, and the quality and flavor of their prepared items. Competitors will create menus to demonstrate required fundamental cooking techniques using items from a common pantry 2025.

 Gastronomic Engineering 2025 SLSC Contest packet Clothing needs to be professional and sharp.

 Any identification of department, school, city, or state must be covered and should be avoided if possible.

• This is the only National Montana Contest offered that has its own Technical Standard- Print off the above document for correct and accurate information concerning our GE SLSC contest.

Heavy equipment operators are needed on construction sites all over the country now more than ever. Students should have knowledge of equipment operation, day to day maintenance, and activities (such as surveying and blueprint reading) on various machines in different applications. The competition will evaluate each contestant’s preparation for employment and recognize outstanding students for excellence and professionalism in the field of heavy equipment operation. Students will work with a local implement business to have proper training and sign off to do this competition. You will need one form for each instructor who assists you with your skill list. For instance, if one instructor helped you with rigging, wheel loader operation, and the pre-trip checklist inspection, they would complete the form by checking only the skills they assisted you with, then signing and dating it. Proof of training form 

In addition, print the waiver release form for your facility if you are training outside of school (required for all ages) Waiver Release form for facility signed & dated before training begins.

Expected Station's @SLSC2025:

______CRAWLER TRACTORS (BULLDOZER) (simulator)

______ROCK HAULER TRUCK (simulator)

______PRE- TRIP CHECK LIST (Skid Steer)

______WHEEL LOADER

______COMPACT TRACK LOADER

______VIBRATORY SOIL COMPACTOR

______EXCAVATOR

______HAND SIGNALING-Link 

______PLAN/ BLUEPRINT READING

______BACKHOE

______SHOP TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT (10 verbal)

______RIGGING-link 

On the virtual simulator the Haulage Rock truck system and bulldozer system- If you want to practice on the virtual simulator, In addition to rigging and hand signals, you will have to drive to Bozeman and hook up with Calvin (Chark) at Williams construction. If you need more info let your director know.

Wheel Loader    221 F Case loader or JCB 409

Compact track loader       TV 370 Case

Vibratory Soil Compactor      BW 145D  Bomag

Excavator      CX 37C Case or CX 50 Case

Backhoe     580 Super N Case

*These Stations & Equipment are subject to change

Dress warm pending weather, competitors will be outside. Jeans are allowed, no holes or cuffs for safety reasons.

Clothing technical standards are waived- clothing must be shop appropriate and safe. Clothing needs to be professional and sharp. Any identification of department, school, city, or state must be covered with tape and should be avoided if possible. Polo shirts can be SkillsUSA Montana.

The competition is divided into three phases: completion of employment applications; preliminary interview(s) with a receptionist; and in-depth interview(s). Competitors are evaluated on their understanding of employment procedures faced in applying for positions in the occupational areas in which they are training. A professional portfolio component is required, see your tech standards. SLSC- All competitors must create a one-page resume. Competitors must also provide One (1) hard copy of a one-page, typed personal resume for the performance portion of the competition. (one for Interviewer) , Employment Portfolio and a Pen.  Apply for a job that is currently applicable to them. They will have to have their resume in hand for competition ( 1 copy) in addition to online. Official dress is required.

Competitors demonstrate and explain an entry-level skill used in the occupational area for which they are training or learning. Competitors in Job Skill Demonstration must demonstrate a career objective in an occupational area that is included in one of the competition areas of the SkillsUSA Championships or in a current classroom. The competition requires a demonstration performing an occupational skill accompanied by a clear explanation of the topic using experiments, displays or practical operations. This is state only contest, use Job Skill Demo Open Tech standards for best rules to follow. 

Official dress or any color Polo shirts can be SkillsUSA Montana. Job Skill Demo O rubric

Competitors demonstrate their knowledge of general math concepts used in the healthcare field. They complete a written test that may include the use of ratio/proportion, dosage calculation, metric and household equivalents, Roman numerals, abbreviations, and general math including percentages, along with other medical math-related problems. The test will be offered online only this year- student may do another skill contest. Official dress is required.

(Team of 7) This teamwork and oral presentation competition evaluates a team’s understanding of the symbolic representation of the colors and assembled parts of the SkillsUSA emblem. Each team includes seven registered members in the roles of president, vice president, parliamentarian, reporter, treasurer, secretary and historian. PD online test is required. Official dress required. 

(Team of 3)The competition consists of documenting and presenting activities members have been involved with during the school year, including chapter meetings, leadership training, publicity, community service projects, professional development, program of work, awards, local and state competitions and other selected chapter activities. Each activity is documented in a professional portfolio and a team of three members are interviewed. PD online test is required. Official dress required. Helpful materials for OC 

Photography competitors are put through a series of real-world photographic scenarios and are judged on their overall mastery of the following skills: understanding the features of today's digital SLR or mirrorless cameras, utilizing their camera in manual mode, field assignment, editing pictures from the field assignment, producing a conceptual fine art piece from their field assignment images, online written test, in person portrait studio, troubleshooting common photo errors, print competition, and job interview. Competitors are required to bring their own computer with photo editing software and all camera cards will need to be formatted and clear of any images prior to the competition.

Business casual dress will be required.

• White polo shirt 

• Black or khaki slacks or black dress skirt (knee-length minimum) 

• Closed-toe shoes 

Flash drives are supplied by SkillsUSA MT

Print Competition: Competitors must submit two prints produced before the competition in any category of their choice. Prints will be on public display and must not contain any questionable content, including but not limited to: drugs, sex, violence, illegal activity, etc. This competition's competitors will be evaluated on the following;

1. Technical and Artistic Aspects

2. Overall Impact

3. Presentation Quality

4. Adherence to Requirements

Prints must adhere to the following criteria:

a. Print size must be an 11"x14" or 10”x15”

b. Both prints must be mounted to a 16"x20" black foam core board (1⁄4" thick) with a

    16"x20" black over mat

c. Each print must have a label placed on the back upper middle section that includes the following information:

1). Competitor number (given at the competition)

2). Cell phone number

d. Prints must be brought to the first orientation meeting of the competition. Prints

received after the meeting will receive a penalty.

Field Assignment: The assignment evaluates the competitor’s creative ability and adherence to competition guidelines. Competitors are brought to an undisclosed location to capture images based on a theme chosen by the technical committee. Competitors will then choose their four best images for the Editing Assignment. Scoring is based on:

a. Relevance to theme

b. Creative: overall use of composition, lighting, impact, etc.

c. Artistic and technical proficiency

d. Adherence to Location Parameters

e. Time management

Note: The competitors will be sent to a location for approximately one hour and will choose their best for images and edit them. They will then submit the four original raw (unedited) photos, plus their edited photos. All of these images must be shot in manual exposure. Auto focus is acceptable. All edited pictures will need to be in .jpg format.

Portrait Studio: Students will be evaluated on their use and understanding of studio lighting and working with a model. Scoring is based on, but not limited to:

a. Standard studio portrait lighting.

b. Proper camera settings

c. Sharp and correct focus

d. Posing and framing

Note: Competitors will submit two edited images and the original raw (unedited) images on the provided flash drive. All edited pictures will need to be in .jpg format.

Digital Editing: Competitors will use images from the field assignment to manipulate in photo editing software. This competition evaluates the student’s knowledge of editing techniques, including, but not limited to: exposure, white balance, cropping, color correction, rotation, etc. Level of editing, edits must be global in nature and must not be overdone.

1. Creativity and Relevance to Theme

2. Technical Accuracy

3. Overall Impact

4. Adherence to Requirements

Note: Competitors will submit their best four edited images from the Field Assignment and the original (unedited) raw images on the provided flash drive. All edited pictures will need to be in .jpg format.

Conceptual Assignment: Competitors will use photo editing software to combine a minimum of three images from their chosen field assignment to produce a creative conceptual piece of art. Very few parameters are put on this competition, as it is meant to evaluate creativity.

Note: Competitors will submit the conceptual piece of art as a .jpg on the provided flash drive.

Identifying Common Photography Errors

Competitors will be given five images with common errors they will have to correctly identify the issues.

Job Interview: Competitors will submit their resume and answer questions presented by the panel of judges.

1. Answering questions

2. Professionalism

3. Resume

4. Official dress

Business casual dress

• White polo shirt 

• Black or khaki slacks or black dress skirt (knee-length minimum) 

• Closed-toe shoes 

Note: Flash drives with the required pictures will be submitted to the judges at the end of this competition.

1. 4 images that were edited from the field assignment and the raw (unedited) images

2. 1 image from the conceptual assignment

3. 2 images that were edited from the portrait assignment and the raw (unedited) images.

Photography Competition Schedule

9:00-9:30

Orientation

9:30-10:00

Setup-Print Competition and Workstation

10:00-11:00

Field Exercise

11:00-12:15

Portraits and Trouble Shooting Digital Images

12:15-12:45

Lunch

12:45-2:15

Digital Editing and Conceptual Design

2:15-3:30

Job Interview and Submission of Thumb Drive

3:30-4:15

Judges wrap up

4:15

Debrief

Students present their state conference pin artwork and participate in an oral presentation regarding all aspects of their creation of the design. Competitors will explain how the pin represents their state, its unique qualities and why another SkillsUSA student or adult member would want to wear the pin. The competitor will create a tabletop display that represents the process they used to create the design. This is now an in person contest at state. Read your tech standards for details. Official dress is required. PD online test is required. 

Your winner's pin will then be produced for the national delegation pin trading at nationals and will be given at state registration the next year, always rotating year to year.  This contest is state specific, if you want to enter the National T-shirt and pin Contest for a chance to win the next design for the SkillsUSA nationals contest, please see SkillsUSA.org for details.

The competition is consistent with the power equipment technology standards for multi-category accreditation task list outlined in Sections 3 thru 7, published by the Equipment & Engine Training Council (EETC). Competitors perform tasks representative of those encountered in a dealership's service department. As the competitors rotate through the various stations, they are judged and scored on technical and oral skills. Competitors must demonstrate excellent customer service skills, safe work practices, cleanliness, organization, accuracy, speed, and completion of assigned tasks. The hands-on stations include many aspects of two-stroke, four-stroke, compact diesel engines, and battery-powered equipment and their associated mechanical, hydraulic and electrical systems. Clothing technical standards are waived- clothing must be shop appropriate and safe. Clothing needs to be professional and sharp. Any identification of department, school, city, or state must be covered with tape and should be avoided if possible. Polo shirts can be SkillsUSA Montana.

-Engine service manual 

5+ stations: parts look up, single/ twin cycle engine breakdown.

The competition requires students to deliver a five- to seven-minute prepared speech based on the annual SkillsUSA competition theme. Competitors are evaluated on their ability to present thoughts relating to the central theme clearly and effectively, and are rated on voice, mechanics and platform deportment. PD online test is required. Official dress is required.

(Team of 3) The competition evaluates bulletin board displays created by SkillsUSA chapters based on the annual SkillsUSA competition theme. The bulletin boards promote SkillsUSA, career and technical education in general and related occupational information. An accompanying professional portfolio documents the development and construction of the bulletin board. An oral presentation explains the process, purpose and educational value of the bulletin board. Official dress is required.

(Team of 5 with 2 alternates=7) The Quiz Bowl competition tests a team of five competitors on their ability to quickly respond to knowledge questions covering academics, current events and SkillsUSA professional development curriculum. Teams will demonstrate communication skills, teamwork, problem solving and time-management skills by determining and presenting the answer to each question clearly within the five-second time frame. Each competitor will take two written tests. One will be a written online Quiz Bowl test covering general academic and current events issues. The other will be the state online SkillsUSA Professional Development test. Two alternates must be registered at the time of competition. Competitors are required to bring an iPad, Chromebook, smart phone w/app download or a laptop may be used-the space bar will act as the button. Official dress is required.

This test is offered online only this year, students may compete in another skill contest, competitors demonstrate the skills required to solve mathematical problems correctly that are commonly found in the skilled trades and professional and technical occupations. Skills demonstrated include addition; subtraction; multiplication; division of whole numbers; fractions and decimals; applied word problems; percentages; ratio proportions; averages; area; volume; metric measures; and traditional (Imperial) measures and trigonometry. Print Formula sheet for reference.

Official dress is required.

(Team of 2) Teams are required to build a robot and arm mechanism prior to the competition. The robot must be capable of locating, grabbing and moving simulated ordnances on the challenge course. This competition assesses proficiencies such as remotely operating the robot via camera, navigation, manipulating the arm mechanism to collect simulated ordnances, traversing various types of terrain, and communication between driver and spotter. Engineering is the emphasis, your detail in your notebook on your engineering of your robot will be weighted higher. Robot parts can be of raw material, as long as the safety of the field and persons are not compromised. VR is allowed for control. Teams may select any wireless camera system with the express purpose of mounting on the robot and reliably providing FPV video feed to the driver viewing device. If needed, a supplemental battery for the express use of powering the camera can be used and cannot exceed a maximum of 9 Volts 

Find more information in the Robotics: Urban Search and Rescue Challenge Guide 2026. Check out the Engineering notebook example: USAR Notebook Example- If any of this is duplicated during competition you will be considered for disqualification, this is a guide not to be replicated.

Polo shirts can be SkillsUSA Montana

Update Nov 1, 2025:

The technical committee has provided the following updates for NLSC 2026:

Beginning with the 2026 National Leadership & Skills Conference (NLSC), the competition will introduce the following modifications:

• The number of skill challenges will be reduced from five (5) to three (3).

  • Teams will now complete each skill challenge twice, with the average of the two runs determining their final score.

• For the Main Challenge Course, the format is changing. Instead of two ordnances, there will now be multiple ordnances placed in various locations on the course. Each ordnance will carry a different point value. Teams will have a set time limit to collect and properly dispense as many ordnances as possible during their allotted time. Multiple disposal locations will be available on the course. This course overall size will change to approximately 30’ by 30’.

  • Since teams will complete two course runs, each team member will be required to drive during one of the runs. This change is designed to encourage greater collaboration and engagement between both team members.

• Teams are responsible for knowing how to change the channel on their robot-mounted camera. This may be necessary to prevent interference with other teams’ signals during the competition. Competitors should ensure they understand the camera’s settings and can quickly adjust the channel if instructed by event staff or technical personnel. Failure to operate on an assigned channel may result in loss of video feed.

National competitors in Robotics-Urban Search and Rescue are required to complete an online competition-specific knowledge test as well as the online SkillsUSA Professional Development test.

• SkillsUSA Championships national competitors will receive an email with their login credentials by May 5.

• Deadline: tests must be completed by May 28, 2026, by 5 p.m. ET.

Teams competing in national Robotics-Urban Search and Rescue must submit a digital copy of their engineering notebook and a video of their competition robot as part of their pre-conference online submission requirements.

• Submit a digital version of their engineering notebook in the Competitor Materials Portal.

  • Submission may be provided as either a PDF file or a sharable link to a digital engineering notebook. If submitting a shareable link, it must be set to allow access to anyone with the link.

• Teams must also bring a copy (sharable link) of their engineering notebook to the competition.

• Teams that continue to adjust and/or modify their robot after the online submission are required to continue documenting their design edits in the engineering notebook. Judges will review these updates onsite.

• Robot Video Submission Requirement: Each team must submit a video of their completed robot along with their engineering notebook. The video should provide a clear demonstration of the robot in operation and highlight its key design features. Judges will use this video to verify that the physical robot corresponds with the design process, concepts, and documentation provided in the engineering notebook.

  • The video must be between 2–4 minutes in length.

  • It must include a 360-degree view of the robot as well as footage of the robot performing at least one task relevant to the competition.

  • The team should briefly introduce the robot in the video, noting any major design elements discussed in the notebook.

  • Videos must be submitted in the designated format and by the official deadline.

    • Maximum file upload size is 100MB (acceptable upload file types include .mp4, .mpg, .mov). If video file size is larger than 100MB then a share link for viewing the video from a public site (like YouTube or Google Drive) can be submitted.

    • Failure to submit a video will result in the notebook evaluation being considered incomplete.

Students will present their state conference T-shirt ( printed on 11x17 paper or can do actual T shirt design but not required) and create a professional portfolio that documents the process they used to create the design. Competitors will participate in an oral presentation regarding all aspects of their creation of the design and explain how the T-shirt represents their state, its unique qualities and why another SkillsUSA student or adult member would want to wear the shirt. The competition consists of two parts: 1. Evaluation of the T-shirt design through one visual presentation. 2. Evaluation and verbal presentation of the design decisions through an oral presentation, which will include a question-answer session. The student that wins Gold at SLSC will move on to represent Montana at the national level in Atlanta, GA. State specific contest update that substitutes the physical printed T-shirt for a “mock-up” of the design image on the colored shirt that is printed onto 11x17 paper. There are free design sites that offer a rendering of your shirt design before purchase, this image can be screenshot to print on paper to replace the T-shirt requirement. (some examples include: Canva, Adobe, Designhill, etc.) . Your winner's shirt can then be produced for the national delegation and pre orders will be available in state registration.  This contest is state specific, if you want to enter the National T-shirt and pin Contest for a chance to win the next design for the SkillsUSA nationals contest, please see SkillsUSA.org for details. PD test required.

Official Dress is required.

(Team of 3) This competition evaluates and recognizes outstanding students for excellence and professionalism in the areas of creative and critical thinking skills and the decision-making process used to solve a problem. The competition is intended to foster creativity, innovation, teamwork and problem-solving skills. Competitors are required to follow the bring list on the Technical standards-PD test is now offered for Middle school level this will be in the testing spot on rubric. Make sure your contestants sign in and take the PD test. Polo shirts can be SkillsUSA Montana.

Grading Rubric: click here 

Scenario: 

Your team works for a local Recycling Factory and is being asked to build a device that can sort out 5 different sized materials without human interaction. The material will be delivered using a dump truck (judge will tip a cup over gently to release marbles in your hopper). Each material must then be sorted into separate bins with similar sizes/material parts. Design kit will be provided.

Testing

·       Teams will be testing at their tables, after clean-up.

o   Your team will be given 2 attempts to properly sort your marbles.

o   Each test may not take longer than 90 seconds.

o   You must be present to run your test for the judges.

Presentation: (3 minutes)

·       Your team will be asked to “Sales Pitch” why your device is better than the other group’s solutions.

o   This should be a short (60-90 second) presentation by your team to the judges.

·       Your team will be asked questions by the judges according to the rubric (2 minutes)

Evaluation / Judging Criteria:

·       General points will be awarded in accordance with the TEC Rubric in the TEC Contest Guidelines.

Competitors will demonstrate installation, configuration and use of Windows, Mac OSX and Linux Professional Operating Systems and one or more integrated office suite packages including email, word processing, spreadsheet applications, database applications, web page development, money management applications, presentations applications, internet browser applications, etc. Microsoft Office and other integrated office suites can be used. The utilization of instant messaging, collaboration and social networking software will be required during the contest. Competitors are expected to perform in teams while demonstrating individual technical skills. The competition includes an oral presentation demonstrating the student’s ability to communicate with others, a hands-on skills demonstration and a written examination. modules to be covered. 3 Use Features of Publisher 65, 4 Use Features of Word 85, 5 Use Features of Excel 85, 6 Use Features of PowerPoint 85, 7 Use Features of Access 100, 12 Written Test 100. The contest consists of progressive timed units. *Student needs a non restricted email, school email will not work they have to many blockers, Student needs the username and password for email on hand. Students will receive a invite conformation email ahead of SLSC, they must accept the invite to compete at SLSC. Polo shirts can be SkillsUSA Montana.

The competition evaluates a competitor’s preparation for employment and recognizes outstanding students for excellence and professionalism in the field of technical drafting (mechanical drafting design). The remodel (PDF) will be saved on a flash drive provided by SkillsUSA MT, then submitted for judging. The competition will focus on the solution of industry-developed problems by applying appropriate technical drafting skills and tools including computer-aided drafting (CAD). Competitor responsible for bringing own computer with own software, the computer must be able to connect to public WIFI, turn off all blockers. Official dress is required.

Competitors receive competition drawings and a set of welding procedure specifications that conform to the latest edition of the American Welding Society standards. At a series of stations, competitors are tested on various aspects of welding: measuring weld replicas, using weld measuring gauges; laying out a plate and using oxy-acetylene equipment to cut several holes that are checked for accuracy and quality; gas metal arc welding (GMAW) on steel making welds in various positions using short circuiting transfers; flux cored arc welding (FCAW) using a shielding gas, making welds in various positions and, using a combination machine capable of providing the correct welding current for shielded metal arc (SMAW) and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW). This is not basic welding, this contest is considered intermediate to advanced welding. Students are required to know all basic processes for the contest. The students are also required to be proficient in using common tools of a workshop. A agreement will be signed by the advisor attesting to the knowledge of the student at registration, in addition a verification letter must be presented in person at orientation. If a skill is not known, please state it in the letter, for example: if TIG was not taught in class, please state that in the letter, the student will not be disqualified, but asked to skip that station, then a zero will be given for that station. Skills requirement and letter is listed on the technical standards. 

Clothing technical standards are waived- clothing must be shop appropriate and safe. Clothing needs to be professional and sharp. Any identification of department, school, city, or state must be covered with tape and should be avoided if possible. 

Clothing requirement for welding- ALL PPE for welding is required to bring by competitor: Shield, safety glasses, coat, sleeves if needed, gloves, boots, no holes or cuffs in pants. 

2. Videos from NLSC that are pertinent to SLSC- YOU MUST HAVE A TOOL BOX, you will be disqualified if you do not.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WE8e2vhE5DA

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aDRmEPIBhQQ

(Team of 3) This competition requires a team of three students to use their welding and fabrication skills to build a designed project from the provided material. The project is constructed by the competitors based on prints provided. Teams should be skilled in the following welding and cutting processes: SMAW, GTAW, GMAW, FCAW / OFC and PAC. This is not basic welding, this contest is considered intermediate to advanced welding. Students are required to know all above processes for the contest. The students are also required to be proficient in using common tools of a workshop. An agreement will be signed by the advisor attesting to the knowledge of the student at registration, in addition a verification letter must be presented in person at orientation. If a skill is not known, please state it in the letter, for example: if TIG was not taught in class, please state that in the letter, the student will not be disqualified, but asked to skip that station, then a zero will be given for that station. Skills requirement and letter is listed on the technical standards.  

Clothing technical standards are waived- clothing must be shop appropriate and safe. Clothing needs to be professional and sharp. Any identification of department, school, city, or state must be covered with tape and should be avoided if possible. Polo shirts can be SkillsUSA Montana.

Clothing requirement for welding- ALL PPE for welding is required to bring by competitor: Shield, safety glasses, Hearing and/or ear protection, coat, sleeves if needed, gloves, boots, no holes or cuffs in pants.

Competitors demonstrate their ability to design and produce a welded sculpture and to describe all aspects of the creation of their design. Welded sculptures are displayed for the state competition along with a professional portfolio documenting evidence of creating the original work. Each participant is interviewed regarding the design and creation of the piece. The onsite welding component will not be in effect for SLSC welding sculpture contest, only interview, presentation and notebook will be required- Official dress is required for this competition. 

Welding Sculpture (Updated 7-24-2025)

The technical committee for the Welding Sculpture competition has provided the following clarification for the 2024-26 Technical Standards competition guidelines 4.e. Projects are to be left unpainted, including primers and other coatings (except for clear coating).

• Naturally achieved, patinas shall be limited to air, water or heat, or any combination thereof. (No chemically enhanced finishes are permitted).

• A penalty of 50 points will be deducted for paint/finish violation.

Clarification on Chemical Treatments for the Welding Sculpture Competition:

• Borax is considered a chemical treatment and is not permitted under competition guidelines.

  • Exception: Borax may be used only during the forge welding process, where it functions as a flux to join steel that has been heated in a forge and hammer-welded together.

• Soot is permitted only when it is a byproduct of the oxyfuel process (heating, cutting, or welding). This soot is naturally produced when the oxygen is turned off and the fuel gas remains on a necessary step in properly shutting down oxyfuel equipment. Therefore, it is considered part of the welding/joining process and not an intentional chemical patina.

Contestants will demonstrate their ability to design and produce a recycled metal sculpture. They must describe the steps, processes, fabrication techniques, and safety methods used in its creation. Sculptures are designed, built, and documented before the State Leadership & Skills Conference. A required notebook will display evidence of creating the original work. Each contestant will be interviewed regarding their design and fabrication process. 

The project is not created on-site. 

Official dress is required.

Recycled Metal Sculpture Technical Standard 

The description below is your technical standard information for the SLSC contest:

Woods- Basic-MT*-(S)-Description is included below for state only Contest-open to MS/HS

PURPOSE -To provide students enrolled in high school BASIC WOOD Technology coursework an opportunity to demonstrate construction and problem-solving skills using hand tools in a safe and efficient manner. 

ELIGIBILITY -Open to all SkillsUSA members who have completed no more than 2 years of wood shop courses in grades 6 -10 

Clothing: Comfortable clothing can be worn, no holes or cuffs on jeans, no hats, shop acceptable clothes. Safety glasses will be worn at all times. Clothing must be shop appropriate and safe. Clothing needs to be professional and sharp. Any identification of department, school, city, or state must be covered with tape and should be avoided if possible. Polo shirts can be SkillsUSA Montana.

WOODWORKING - contestants will reproduce the sample project.

The contestant should have basic knowledge in the safe use of the following tools: hand drill & tips, hand saw, coping saw with fine tooth blade, hand sanding block with sandpaper, hand miter box saw, standard screwdrivers, chisels up to 3/4", combination square, tape measure, safety glasses.

Contestants are required to bring their own tools listed above.

Contestants will be given wood stock of a predetermined size. The assignment will be to construct an item in a safe and logical order as specified on the provided worksheet. 1000pts total

2025 bring list:  Basic woods-  bring list Hammer, speed square, sanding block with different types of sand paper, hand saw, tape measure, wood or quick clamp

The description below is your technical standard information for the SLSC contest:

Official dress is required.

Wood Furniture middle & high school Technical Standard 

The description below is your technical standard information for the SLSC contest:

Official dress is required.

Wood Sculpture middle & high school Technical Standard 

Championship Guide & regulations 

Montana contest guide & regulations