Sullivan Ashcraft

Sullivan Ashcraft, an Ohio Hi-Point Career Center Construction Trades senior from Bellefontaine High School, punched his ticket to the National SkillsUSA competition after placing first in the Carpentry event at the Ohio SkillsUSA competition on April 26.

Ashcraft’s first place finish comes after he swept the competition and placed first at the Southwest Regional SkillsUSA competition. He will compete at the national level in Atlanta, Georgia in June.

For the Carpentry event, Ashcraft was required to frame walls, cut and install rafters, handle fascia board and soffit installation, as well as demonstrate knowledge of stair construction. He was judged on accuracy, his ability to read and interpret blueprints, workmanship, safety as well as the proper use of tools, equipment, and materials.

“We’re all really proud of him and excited for him to compete,” said Dave Marsteller, OHP’s Construction Trades instructor. “He’s an excellent student with great skills in this field. He has what it takes to be a national champion.”

Allison Harlan, a Graphic and Media Arts Academy senior from Triad High School, earned Silver in the Job Interview. While just missing out on competing at the national level, Harlan impressed the judges through the competition category’s three phases: completion of employment applications; preliminary interview(s) with a receptionist; and in-depth interview(s). Competitors were evaluated on their understanding of employment procedures faced in applying for positions in the occupational areas in which they are training.

SkillsUSA Ohio's mission is to empower its members to become world-class workers, leaders, and responsible American citizens. SkillsUSA improves the quality of America's skilled workforce through a structured program of citizenship, leadership, employability, technical and professional skills training.