SkillsUSA students from Manhattan high school went to the State competition in Hutchinson on April 24, coming away with another champion qualified to attend Nationals in June in Atlanta.

Senior Alyla Floersch placed first in architectural drafting, as the only MHS member to qualify for the national competition.

“I’ve definitely gained respect for everyone who competed,” junior Emmaly Hagemeister said. “It’s a difficult competition that requires a lot of knowledge and skill, as well as a lot of courage to actually do it.”

Students who competed participated in a variety of events such as cabinet making, teamworks, architectural drafting and technical drafting.

“You need a teacher’s approval to compete, so the teachers usually pick the students they think are most suited or prepared for it,” Hageneister said. 

Senior Gabriel McKinley placed second in cabinet maker, as well as juniors Tucker Callahan, Aiden Holmes, Brecken Crist-Funk and Alec Ogorzolka in the teamworks group. 

“I really wanted to prove myself, especially since I was the only girl in my category,” Hageneister said. “People always seem to assume those classes or competitions are only for guys, and I wanted to prove that women have a place in those spheres as well.”

The event included practice in writing resumes and going through job interviews to prepare for the future.

“I also got to connect with people in the woodworking industry to learn about various careers and opportunities,” Hageneister said.