Where the Champions are!

We are here in Atlanta, Georgia, for the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference (NLSC), one of the largest showcases of career and technical education excellence in the nation. Thousands of students, educators, industry partners, and workforce leaders have gathered to celebrate achievement, develop leadership skills, and demonstrate the technical competencies that prepare students for successful careers.

This year, I have the privilege of serving as a member of the National Education Team (NET) for the SkillsUSA Barbering Competition. As part of the NET team, I am working alongside barbering educators and industry professionals from across the country to ensure the competition runs smoothly and reflects the highest standards of our profession. It is an honor to contribute to an event that provides students with the opportunity to showcase their skills on a national stage.

Among the many competitions taking place this week, the Barbering competition stands out as an incredible opportunity for students to demonstrate the knowledge, technical abilities, and professionalism they have developed through their career and technical education programs. Competitors from across the nation are putting their training to the test as they perform haircutting services, demonstrate sanitation procedures, complete client consultations, and exhibit the professional behaviors expected in today’s barbering industry.

Walking through the competition area, it is impossible not to be impressed by the level of talent, preparation, and dedication displayed by these future professionals. Every competitor has invested countless hours refining technical skills, practicing competition procedures, and preparing for the challenges they will face during the event. Their commitment reflects the excellence of barbering programs across the United States.

SkillsUSA competitions are about much more than earning medals. They provide authentic learning experiences that build confidence, leadership, communication skills, professionalism, and career readiness. Students learn how to perform under pressure, solve problems, manage time effectively, and represent their schools and professions with pride.

For barbering students, competitions like these closely mirror the expectations they will encounter in the workplace and during licensure examinations. Success requires technical skill, attention to detail, sanitation and safety knowledge, professionalism, and outstanding customer service. These are the same competencies employers seek when hiring the next generation of barbering professionals.

As educators, we are reminded why Career and Technical Education is so important. Events like the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference provide students with opportunities to grow beyond the classroom, connect with industry leaders, and experience the rewards of hard work and preparation.

Whether competitors leave Atlanta with a gold medal or simply the experience gained through participation, they are returning home with valuable lessons that will serve them throughout their careers.

Good luck to every student representing their school, state, and profession this week. The future of barbering is bright, and it is inspiring to see so many talented future professionals gathered here in Atlanta to demonstrate their skills and pursue excellence.

Dr. Renda Songer, Ed.D.

Director - The Institute Rockwall

National Education Team (NET) Member, SkillsUSA Barbering Competition

Executive Director, Texas Barber & Cosmetology Educators

2025 Nicholas F. Cimaglia Educator of the Year