NVUSD CTE Shines at SkillsUSA State Conference

In only their second year of participating in SkillsUSA, students and educators from the Napa Valley Unified School District (NVUSD), with the support of the Napa County Office of Education’s (NCOE) College and Career Readiness team, are already making waves at the state level.

This spring, thirty-one Career Technical Education (CTE) students from Napa High School, Vintage High School, and New Technology High School qualified to compete at the prestigious SkillsUSA California State Leadership and Skills Conference in Ontario. These outstanding students showcased their skills, leadership, and professionalism across a wide range of competitions, standing shoulder to shoulder with the best and brightest from across the state.

Two NVUSD schools—Vintage High School and New Technology High School—earned Gold Chapter of Excellence honors, a reflection of the exceptional quality and impact of their CTE programs. This prestigious recognition is awarded to chapters that exemplify the highest standards in integrating personal, workplace, and technical skills into student learning and chapter activities.

“I am so proud of these kids and what they do for the school and community,” said Shawn Sandahl, CTE Printing and Graphics teacher at Vintage High School. “I feel blessed to be a CTE teacher and feel that it is so important to show the next generation tangible ways their learning can impact their surroundings. SkillsUSA is a great way to be able to showcase what we are already doing.”

Adding to the celebration, Lisa Gottfried of New Technology High School was named SkillsUSA California Advisor of the Year and will now represent the state as a member of the SkillsUSA Board of Directors. Her leadership, vision, and commitment to student success continue to elevate NVUSD’s CTE presence both locally and statewide.

“I am super proud of all the students who participated this year at the Regional and State level. What an incredible opportunity for students to rise to the challenge and push themselves by leading and creating incredible projects that make Napa better, from visiting Assisted Living homes to raising money for Breast Cancer Research. I’m also honored to represent our students and teachers on the California Board of Directors”

These accomplishments mark a major milestone in Napa’s growing SkillsUSA movement and highlight the dedication of educators, students, and community partners working together to prepare students for future success.

Congratulations to all participating students, advisors, and schools—we’re incredibly proud of you!