Advertisement

SkillsUSA is a national organization for students enrolled in career and technical education classes.

Amy Pieciak, 17, of Kalkaska and a senior at Forest Area High School, and a student at the Traverse Bay Area Intermediate School District CareerTech Center won a gold medal in culinary arts during the event that was hosted by TBA ISD.

"I was very excited," Pieciak said. "It was a surprise."

She placed second in baking during the event last year.

Kevin Waghorne, 18, of Kalkaska and a senior at Kalkaska High School and a student at the Traverse Bay Area Intermediate School District Career-Tech Center won a silver medal in power equipment technology. Waghorne plans to further his education at the Michigan Institute of Aviation Technology in Belleville, Mich.

During the competition, students competed in a variety of areas including small engines, commercial baking, residential writing, automotive service, criminal justice and fire fighting

According to the CTC, research indicates that students participating in extracurricular activities are more successful in the areas of education and careers than those who do not.

Both Pieciak and Waghorne will move to the state competition in Lansing on April 27 through 29. For more information about SkillsUSA, visit miskillsusa.org.