The Final Countdown: How SLC is Shaping the Professionals of Tomorrow

“Professionalism, like nobody's business. How to act, how to stand, how to prepare... Shaking hands, saying hello and thank you to the judges, to make sure that you're leaving the judges with a good, solid impression before you deal with anything.” 

This is what HOSA Advisor James Hamburg said when asked about the standards of the State Leadership Conference (SLC).  This may seem excessive to some, but for the competitors representing South CTA, it is the requirement — the standard. But before we dive deeper, we must first know what SLC is. It is an annual event for student organizations like HOSA, FBLA, and SkillsUSA, where members gather to participate in leadership training, compete in events, and network. This year, South CTA has sent 57 students to face off against thousands of the state's most experienced competitors. They attended and rose against all odds, many placing at the top of their fields. This is their journey — the preparation, the challenges, the transformation.

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Many students attend SLC for different reasons. For some, it was the chance to work with and meet like-minded people and preview their respective fields, such as HOSA competitors Preston Sangasy and Khorie’ Sterling. Others, like FBLA competitors Christopher Ceballos and Angelina Rosal, went for the experience and opportunity. And CTSO executive board members, like SkillsUSA competitor Devri Chappell and Lianne Blacer, went in with the additional reason of getting an idea of “what the competitions were and what we could possibly compete in so that we can grow our club next year.” Despite the different “whys,” every student faced the same reality: the preparation would be difficult.

This “final countdown” phase serves as a simulation of the high-stakes environment they will eventually face in healthcare, business, technical industries, and other student-pursued fields. SkillsUSA Advisor Christine Corbin noted these competitions “prepare kids for career and college readiness, among other interests,” a sentiment echoed by FBLA competitor BriUnique Toeaina. For Toeaina, the biggest takeaway wasn’t just the knowledge but the professional confidence gained by overcoming the mental pressure of competition. Facing these hurdles has brought a new sense of certainty; rather than being deterred, many students found that SLC solidified their desire to pursue their respective careers.

For the students sitting on the sidelines, perhaps watching from the hallways and feeling too intimidated to join, this year’s competitors have a unanimous message: take the risk. “Don’t let the fear of failing keep you from an experience that could change your life” is a sentiment shared by both advisors and students alike. As the Claw & Quill looks toward next year, the journey of these 57 students serves as a reminder that while trophies may gather dust, the professionalism and growth gained at SLC leave a permanent mark. Join this journey — we hope to see you there next year!

Photo Credits (in order of Left to Right): SkillsUSA (Instagram), Alaina Gregorio (Instagram), Tanisha Ellerbe (Instagram)