Keystone Central CTC students place at State SkillsUSA competition

BALD EAGLE TOWNSHIP, PA – Keystone Central CTC students Charles Harter and Skylar Lininger recently competed in the virtual PA SkillsUSA Competition. The results were unveiled last week via a YouTube presentation and the two did very well.

Harter, a Central Mountain High School sophomore, earned first place in the CNC Milling Specialist state competition. Lininger, a Central Mountain senior, took third place honors in the Early Childhood Education state competition.

Harter received a bye in the district competition which enabled him to compete in states. Harter’s goal was to place in the top half or be on the podium at states. He certainly exceeded those expectations. He states, “The competition was nerve-wracking, but it was a good experience and I’m glad I did it.”

The purpose of this contest was to evaluate each contestant’s preparation for employment in Computer Numeric Control Milling. In addition, it recognized outstanding students for excellence and professionalism. This contest assessed the ability to write CNC milling programs, interpret prints (including GDT), and measure/gage parts.

Participants also demonstrated theoretical knowledge of CNC machine configuration, setup and operations.

Lininger accomplished her goal of placing first in the district competition, moving on to the state competition and placing there. Lininger stated, “The competitions were all virtual which made it difficult to overcome some barriers, but I am proud of my accomplishments.”

Early Childhood Education contestants demonstrated their knowledge of developmentally appropriate practice and their ability to prepare and implement learning activities for children three to five years old. Contestants prepared a written lesson plan and took a written test assessing their knowledge of child development and effective teaching strategies. They also demonstrated their understanding of the unique age-related learning characteristics of young children and the relevant social interactions as they implemented the lesson.

Teachers Shan Packer and Ashley Brungard said they are extremely proud of these students for accomplishing their goals for this year. Both teachers reiterated, “They have overcome a lot of obstacles with remote learning and the competition being virtual. It was special to watch them excel and achieve their goals especially during a pandemic.”

Harter will have the opportunity to compete at the National SkillsUSA Leadership & Skill Conference in June.