LEESBURG, Va. — SkillsUSA, the #1 workforce development organization for students, hosted its annual National Signing Day, a nationwide celebration honoring thousands of career and technical education (CTE) students. On May 6, ceremonies took place across Florida, Texas, Arizona, New York and California, where students signed letters of intent with employers and training programs, surrounded by family members, educators and industry leaders. 

Events like these recognize students committing to careers in construction, electrical, HVAC and other in-demand trades — as 92% of construction firms report difficulty finding workers, underscoring persistent workforce shortages across the industry. 

“SkillsUSA National Signing Day is our way of celebrating students who choose a skilled future,” said Chelle Travis, Executive Director of SkillsUSA. “We treat our Signing Day with the same prestige as a D1 athletic draft because these students are the elite athletes of the labor market. They are the ones who will build our cities, secure our networks, and power our infrastructure.”

This massive undertaking is made possible through the support of SkillsUSA’s partners, including Stand Together, BMW, General Motors, Tennant Company, State Farm, Ford Philanthropy and the U.S. Navy. These organizations aren’t just sponsors; they are the recruiters and mentors waiting at the finish line to welcome these students into the workforce.