Winners of SkillsUSA Division 7 Competition to Advance to State-Level Contest

High School Students Compete in Automotive Technology and Collision Repair in Duncansville

The SkillsUSA Pennsylvania Division 7 competition is a regional event that challenges high school students specializing in automotive technology and collision repair. On January 21, 2025, the competition took place at Stuckey Collision Center in Duncansville, PA. High school students specializing in automotive technology and collision repair from eight counties competed in tasks like auto body damage assessment, repair cost estimation, collision repair, refinishing, and automotive maintenance technology.

The students' technical skills and precision were assessed by experienced technicians from Stuckey Collision Center. It was rewarding to witness the students' abilities in action, noting that they often work with the students for several years in their programs, and then see them compete against others in the field, which was a fulfilling experience.

After the day-long competition, the winners were honoured at an awards ceremony held at the Blair County Convention Center, alongside other SkillsUSA competitions. The victorious students earned the opportunity to advance to the state-level contest, where they would compete for a chance to represent their region at the national level. Through these competitions, SkillsUSA provides students with valuable hands-on experience and exposure to the industry, equipping them for future careers in automotive technology and collision repair.

Editor’s Note:

The SkillsUSA Pennsylvania Division 7 competition is more than just an event—it's a stepping stone for aspiring automotive professionals. It plays a vital role in bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience. High school students have the opportunity to showcase the skills they've developed in automotive technology and collision repair, demonstrating their expertise after years of training. This competition offers valuable experiences that students typically don’t get in the classroom. With assessments from seasoned professionals, participants receive constructive feedback and mentorship from industry experts. Additionally, advancing through the regional, state, and potentially national levels fosters a sense of accomplishment and motivation, inspiring students to push for excellence. 

Skoobuzz believes this competition provides a solid foundation for student’s future careers in the automotive industry.