SALISBURY, N.C. – Twenty-six students from Rowan-Cabarrus Community College showcased exceptional skills and professionalism at the 2025 SkillsUSA North Carolina State Leadership and Skills Conference, held April 9-11, 2025, in Greensboro. Competing in a wide range of career and technical events, 18 Rowan-Cabarrus students placed in the top five in their competitions and exemplified the College’s strong emphasis on workforce readiness and real-world training.
SkillsUSA is one of the nation’s premier career and technical student organizations, uniting students, educators and industry leaders in a shared commitment to excellence. With a focus on career and technical education, SkillsUSA empowers students to become world-class workers and leaders in their fields. The organization’s framework emphasizes the development of personal, workplace and technical skills grounded in academics, preparing students for lifelong success in high-demand careers.
Four students earned first-place honors and advanced to represent both Rowan-Cabarrus and North Carolina at the national SkillsUSA competition in Atlanta, Georgia, in June:
- Tyler Arbeen, first place, Electrical Construction Wiring
- Adam Crow, first place, Industrial Motor Control
- Emmalyn Sides, first place, Masonry
- Nathan Connelly, first place, Sheet Metal
“SkillsUSA aligns with our mission and demonstrates how our students are preparing to meet real-world workforce needs,” said Rowan-Cabarrus President Dr. Carol S. Spalding. “These accomplishments are a powerful reminder of the extraordinary potential of our students and the impact of high-quality technical education. Community colleges like Rowan-Cabarrus are shaping the next generation of leaders in essential industries.”
The following students also achieved top-five placements in their competitions:
- Lance Brush, second place, Advertising Design
- Eduardo Otero, second place, HVACR
- Austin Tilley, second place, Technical Computer Applications
- Blake Barrier, third place, Advertising Design
- Hailie Durham, third place, Internetworking
- Matthew Breen, third place, TeamWorks, Plumber
- Jordan Peek, third place, TeamWorks, Carpenter
- Tiffanie Pender, third place, TeamWorks, Electrician
- Jared Valdespino, third place, TeamWorks, Mason
- Harriett Williams, fourth place, Esthetics (Kaitlyn Haskins, Model)
- Daniel Lambert, fourth place, HVACR
- Stephanie Jackson, fourth place, Skill Project Showcase, Cosmetology
- Sincere Betton, fifth place, Industrial Motor Control
“Our students are gaining more than classroom knowledge. They’re developing practical skills and confidence,” said Vice President of Academic Programs Dr. Michael Quillen. “Opportunities like SkillsUSA showcase that readiness and the value of the education students receive at Rowan-Cabarrus.”
The outstanding success of Rowan-Cabarrus students at this year’s state conference reflects the College’s commitment to career-ready education and meaningful community partnerships. By participating in SkillsUSA, these students gain the skills, confidence and industry exposure they need to succeed in today’s workforce. As they continue their journey, whether advancing to national competition or applying their talents in the workplace, they carry with them the tools to lead and make a difference in their communities.