2009 State Contest

The 2009 SkillsUSA State Conference and Competitions will take place at DMACC and the Iowa Air National Guard Base on Thursday, April 30th and Friday, MAy 1st 2009.

Iowa Contests

3-D Visualization and Animation Mimics the real world production environment where creative output must be accomplished within specific timeframes, resources and design constraints. This is a two-person team event. Contestants must produce high quality images and an animated short subject using 3D computerized images. Students are tested on their technical knowledge, production skills and creative/artistic abilities; take a preliminary written exam and do storyboarding (visual planning).

Action Skills - Leadership Contest- A five-to seven-minute student demonstration of an occupational skill in an area in which a student is training. Contestants use examples, experiments, displays or practical operations to clearly explain their skills using contestant-prepared visual aids.

Advertising Design- Tests technical skills and creative aptitude just as though contestants worked for an ad agency. Competitors produce a mechanical/color separation using traditional manual skills of measuring, inking, cutting amber, color registration, photo scaling, type kerning and leading. They also produce a mechanical layout on the computer. The creative portion involves the application of creative thinking and development of a design problem. Layout, drawing and illustration are used.

Architectural Drafting- Contestants will use their drafting skills to solve an Architectural problem. The problem includes a written test, a hand sketch, a computer-generated problem and a problem that may be solved using CAD. The contest tests the contestants' problem solving abilities, not simply their CAD skills.

Automated Manufacturing Technology- Plotting is not a scored event, however the contestants must be able to generate a plot file that will be used to send their data to the plotter. A team contest for three students. The contest evaluates teams for employment in integrated manufacturing technology fields of computer aided drafting/design (CAD), computer aided manufacturing (CAM), and computer numerical controlled machining (CNC). CAD operators construct the part geometry; the CAM operator generates the tool paths; and the CNC operator sets up and machines the part.

Automotive Service Technology- Contestants will demonstrate their ability to perform jobs and skills based on the task list outlined by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) and the National Automotive Technicians Education Foundation (NATEF). Workstations consist of on-vehicle, simulations, bench and component testing and a written test. Contestants will be judged on technical competency, accuracy, quality, safety and ability to follow directions. There are thirteen skill stations plus the written test.

Cabinetmaking- Requires the building of a small cabinet from materials and drawings supplied. Contestants are expected to read the drawings, lay out and cut the parts using a table saw, laminate trimmer, hand drill, hinge boring machine and various hand tools. The parts must be accurately assembled, sanded and adjusted to tolerances specified by the judges.

Carpentry- Contestants will frame walls using wood and steel studs, cut and install common and hip and jack rafters, install drywall and baseboard moldings and window trim. Contestants will be judged on accuracy, ability to read and interpret blueprints, workmanship and the proper use of tools and equipment.

CNC Milling Technology- An upper-level CNC (computer numerically controlled) programming and machining contest. Contestants receive a part drawing and materials and are asked to write the CNC program, set up the machine and produce the part. Only the final part and safe working practices, not the CNC program, are evaluated.An upper-level CNC (computer numerically controlled) programming and machining contest. Contestants receive a part, drawing and materials and are asked to write the computer program, set up the machine and produce the part with the use of CAD/CAM. Only the final part and safe working practices, not the CNC program, are evaluated.

CNC Turning Technology- An upper-level CNC (computer numerically controlled) programming and machining contest. Contestants receive a part drawing and materials and are asked to write the CNC program, set up the machine and produce the part. Only the final part and safe working practices, not the CNC program, are evaluated.

Collision Repair Technology- The competition requires contestants to repair a metal fender using metal finishing techniques and plastic body filler, refinishing a panel including blending using new paint systems, structural damage analysis including vehicle body alignment, plastic identification and repair, GMA welding to the standards of the I-CAR Welding Qualification Test, estimation of a collision damaged vehicle, and an ASE written exam and interview. Contestants will be judged on the overall appearance of the finished product, speed and proper safety practices.

Commercial Baking- Challenges contestants to meet production and quality standards expected by industry. Students must scale, mix, prepare and bake six products (including breads, rolls, Danish, cookies and pies) and demonstrate cake-decorating skills. They must deliver a quality, salable product while working efficiently and under job-like conditions.

Community Service- Evaluates local chapter activities that benefit the community. SkillsUSA chapters present their best community service project for the year to a panel of judges. Contestants are evaluated on: (1) a notebook reporting the chapter's community service project and, (2) A live presentation by a chapter team of two to three members. The team may be a mix of high school and college/postsecondary students.

Computer Maintenance Technology- The CMT contest requires contestants to identify and repair computer hardware malfunctions, solve configuration problems, and install common components. In addition, the contestants take the A+ Certification exam. Their score on this exam is used as the basis for the written portion of the contest, and contestants who pass the exam receive their A+ Certification.

Computer Programming- The competition consists of project coding and output, a skill-related written test and an interview. The contestants will receive a packet that includes instructions to the written test and each of the three or four projects. Each project's specifications are written for Visual Basic, Java, C++ and RPG. The projects will be saved on the Desktop in a folder called "SkillsUSA Contestant#_." All projects will be downloaded to a jump drive or diskette (which ever the student prefers) and transferred to a main station to be printed, both code and screen.

Criminal Justice- For students preparing to be police officers or to work in other areas of criminal justice. Typically this contest will utilize both written examination and practical exercises to evaluate the contestants' abilities and knowledge of the field. The contestants are scored on their knowledge and application of U.S. Constitutional Law, written and verbal communications skills, and their ability to handle an entry-level law enforcement position.

Culinary Arts- A six-hour competition, encompassing both hot and cold food preparation and presentation. Contestants are rated on their technical culinary skills, sanitation and food safety techniques, and above all, the quality of their prepared items, particularly their creative presentation.

Customer Service- Evaluates students' proficiency in providing customer service. The contest involves live, role-playing situations. Contestants demonstrate their ability to perform customer service in both written and oral forms including telephone and computer skills, communications, problem solving, conflict resolution and business etiquette.

Diesel Equipment Technology- Contestants cycle through fourteen stations testing basic engines; troubleshooting engines; electrical-electronics; chassis; transmissions; carriers; hydraulic systems; vehicle inspection; fundamental failure analysis; brake systems; air-conditioning; general shop skills; job interview skills; and a written test.

Electronics Technology- A six-hour contest divided into four sections testing contestants' knowledge of: analog and digital circuitry; ability to troubleshoot electronic circuits; ability to construct and test experimental circuits; to design and select circuit components; and to assemble an electronic circuit. All aspects of the competition test contestants' abilities to use and calibrate electronic equipment, record and organize data, and demonstrate proper safety practices.

Extemporaneous Speaking- Requires contestants to give a three- to five-minute speech on an assigned topic with five minutes of advance preparation. Contestants enter the preparation area one at a time where they are given a speech topic. They are judged on voice, mechanics, platform deportment, organization and effectiveness.

First Aid/CPR- Evaluates contestant's ability to perform procedures or take appropriate action based on scenarios presented related to CPR and first aid. There is also a written exam. All skills are judged on nationally accepted standards identified by the American Red Cross for first aid emergencies and the American Heart Association for CPR. AED scenario for college/postsecondary contestants will be added.

Food and Beverage Service- Contestants are tested on skills required in the "front of the house" of a fine restaurant. The focus is on guest service and guest relations in the dining room including: table set up; greeting guests; reservations procedures; presentation of menus; description of food, drinks, soups and specials of the day; taking orders; serving each course and clearing the table after each course; and preparation and presentation of the check and closing remarks. Contestants are judged on personal appearance, tableside manner, professionalism, ease with guests, courtesy, general knowledge and technical and verbal skills.

Health Knowledge Bowl- Tests teams of four students on their collective knowledge of health occupations. Teams are judged on speed and accuracy answering questions in nine categories from the National Health Care Core Skill Standards: (1) Academic Foundations; (2) Communication; (3) Systems; (4) Employability Skills; (5) Legal Responsibility; (6) Ethics; (7) Safety Practices; (8) Teamwork; and, (9) Health Maintenance.

HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning & Refrigeration)- The contestants will be tested in the following areas: written exam, brazing skills, refrigerant component service, air measurement and troubleshooting, refrigerant recovery and electrical troubleshooting. Various industry equipment may include ice machines, refrigerated display cases, small package HVAC units, furnaces, and split system air conditioning units.

Industrial Motor Control- Students will demonstrate their knowledge of electrical principles, equipment and industry standards as it relates to the design and installation of motor control circuits. Students will demonstrate their skills and abilities in applying that knowledge by properly installing motor control equipment and associated enclosures, raceways, pilot devices and circuitry.

Internetworking- The contest consists of three main parts--networking design, general networking knowledge and hands-on evaluations. The networking design problem tests a contestant's ability to design functionality, scalability, adaptability, and manageability of an internetworking system. The online written portion tests the student's complete knowledge of internetworking concepts. The hands-on component demonstrates the abilities of the contestant to make cables, trouble shoot network systems, configure routers and switches and to deliver customer service in a technical assistant center environment. The contestants will find errors in WAN and LAN networks; do an ISP configuration using routers and switches; talk a technician through an error they are having on their network; and, take an online, certification type test.

Job Interview- Divided into three phases: completion of employment applications; preliminary interviews with receptionist; and, in-depth interviews. Contestants are evaluated on their understanding of employment procedures faced in applying for positions in the occupational areas for which they are training.

Job Skill Demonstration A- Contestants demonstrate and explain an entry-level skill used in the occupational area for which they are training. Competitors in Job Skill A must demonstrate a career objective in an occupational area that is included in one of the contest areas of the SkillsUSA Championships.

Marine Service Technology- The Marine Service Technology contest includes 4 skill stations and a written test. The hands on test stations include many aspects of 2-stroke and 4-stoke outboard, stern drive and inboard troubleshooting and repair. Students should be proficient in marine application electrical/ignition systems, fuel systems, cooling systems, lubrication systems, drive/transmission systems and boat and trailer rigging and repair. The written test includes the above listed topics including diagnostics, service and repair of marine accessory items. Contestants will be judged on safe work practices, cleanliness, organizational skills, accuracy, speed and completion of assigned tasks, worksheets and paperwork.

Masonry- While production is very important, quality workmanship is vital. The students will be expected to construct a composite brick & block project in a six-hour period which will test their ability to meet industry standards in quality. In addition to a written exam, the critical eye of journeyman judges will be the deciding factor in determining the winners. The contest project will include components of the most frequently used details in residential construction.

Motorcycle Service Technology- Contestants perform tasks representative of those encountered in a dealership's service department. Technical skills include performing scheduled maintenance; using service and parts manuals; electrical testing; precision measurement; brake service; chassis/suspension service; fuel delivery systems; transmission and drive systems; power train systems; electrical systems on Buell, Harley-Davidson and Yamaha motorcycles. Judges will look for clean and organized work habits; correct use of reference materials; the ability to follow directions; and good technical skills.

Photography- Contestants demonstrate their ability to use digital SLR's, image editing software (Adobe Photoshop) and professional studio lighting. Students perform on-site photography, portrait studio lighting & posing, process and print digital photos and submit two 11x14 or 16x20 mounted & matted photographs in advance of the contest to be judged and displayed at the competition. Contestants are evaluated on their mastery of entry-level job skills.

Power Equipment Technology- Tests the student's skills in all areas of this technology. They must know and understand both 2 & 4 cycle engines. They should know and understand the related theories that go along with the types of engines that they will come across in the industry. They should also understand drive trains, hydraulic, as well as wiring schematics. Contestants will need to be versed in customer service. As they rotate through the various stations they are judged and scored on both physical and oral skills. They are further tested with their ability to read and follow the job tasks that are given.

Precision Machining Technology- Contestants will compete in NIMS Level I & II manual machining skills and knowledge areas including operation of manual milling machines, lathes, drill presses, and surface grinders. Contestant knowledge of CNC programming skills using a PC will be evaluated. Related knowledge and skill in the areas of engineering drawing interpretation, GD&T, technical math, machining practices, use of precision measuring/hand tools and ability to communicate verbally using proper industry terminology are also part of this competition.

Prepared Speech- Requires students to deliver a speech five to seven minutes in length on a common theme established by National SkillsUSA early in the school year. Contestants are evaluated on their ability to present thoughts relating to a central theme clearly and effectively, and on voice, mechanics, and platform deportment.

Preschool Teaching Assistant- Contestants will demonstrate their ability to prepare and implement learning activities for children 3 to 5 years old. Contestants are required to write a lesson plan. They will demonstrate their understanding of the unique age-related learning characteristics of young children and the relevant social interactions as they implement the lesson. Contestants will read a preschool book. They will take a written test of their knowledge of child development and effective teaching strategies.

Promotional Bulletin Board- Judges bulletin board displays created by SkillsUSA chapters. The bulletin boards promote SkillsUSA, career and technical education in general, and related occupational information. An oral presentation is also included.

Quiz Bowl- The Quiz Bowl tests a team of 5 competitors' ability to quickly respond to questions covering the areas of academic knowledge, professional development and current events. The participants respond to a question by activating a buzzer system. The teams receive one point for a correct answer and lose a point for each incorrect answer. The active rounds (preliminary and finals) are 100 questions each.

Radio (Audio) Production- The Radio (Audio) Production contest is designed to challenge contestants to produce three radio spots using an information sheet provided. The team has 2.5 hours to write and produce the spots. They then edit the production and put it on a CD-ROM. The contestants are judged on the professionalism of their production, the quality of the audio and the conveyance of the information to the listener.

Related Technical Math- On a written test, contestants demonstrate skills required to solve mathematical problems commonly found in the skilled trades and professional and technical occupations. Skills demonstrated include addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of whole numbers, fractions and decimals; applied word problems; percentages; ratio proportions; averages; area; volume; metric measures and traditional (Imperial) measures and trigonometry.

Residential Plumbing- Contestants "rough-in" hot and cold water lines with copper to a water heater and the sanitary drainage waste and vent lines with cast iron and PVC plastic for a water closet, a lavatory, a washer box and a floor drain. Water pipes are pressure tested on completed projects. Professional plumbers and pipe fitters judge the contestants on the basis of accuracy, workmanship, proper selection and use of tools and supplies, and proper safety practices.

Residential Wiring- Contestants are required to complete a written test, a practical conduit bending exercise and a hands-on installation and wiring exercise. Working from drawings and specifications sheets, contestants are required to install residential wiring and electrical devices. Judging is on the basis of general workmanship, accuracy of layout and installation, and adherence to the current national Electrical Code and standard industry safe practices.

Sheet Metal- Contestants in the sheet metal contest are tested on their ability to perform such jobs as connecting sheet metal pieces with drive cleats, spot welding and riveting. Skills tested may include straight duct, transition fitting and 45-degree entry tap fitting. Professional sheet metal workers judge contestants on the basis of use of hand tools, correctness of layout, and shop safety procedures.

TeamWorks- Requires teams of four to build a joint project in two days, demonstrating their preparation for employment in residential construction. Team members must: analyze a project drawing; write an action plan and give a presentation (in which each team member is required to have an active part); and demonstrate their ability to work as a team performing skills in residential carpentry, plumbing, electricity and masonry. They are also judged on cleanliness of jobsite, timeliness of completing the project, and proper ordering and inventorying of tools and equipment.

Technical Computer Applications- Contestants will be expected to demonstrate installation, configuration and use of DOS, Windows 95/98/ME/XP/2000 Professional Operating Systems and one or more integrated office suite packages including e-mail, word processing, spreadsheet applications, database applications, web page development, money management applications, presentations applications, internet browser applications, etc. Microsoft Office and other integrated office suites could be used. The contest will include an oral presentation demonstrating the students' ability to communicate with others, the hands-on skills demonstration, and up to one hour will be allowed for a written examination

Technical Drafting- This contest evaluates contestant's preparation for employment and recognizes outstanding students for excellence and professionalism in the field of technical drafting. The contest will focus on the solution of industry-developed problems by applying appropriate technical drafting skills and tools including computer-aided drafting (CAD).

Television (Video) Production- Teams of two contestants are required to shoot a one-minute VHS video on location to convey the "theme" of the event. Editing is done in the contest area with special emphasis on professional production of the video by industry standards, quality of audio and video, and adequate conveyance of the "theme" to the viewer.

Web Design- Evaluates each contestant's preparation for employment and to recognize outstanding students for excellence and professionalism in the field of Web design.

Welding- Competitors receive contest drawings and a set of welding procedure specifications. All drawings, welding symbols, and welding terms conform to the latest edition of the American Welding Society standards. Through a series of stations, contestants are tested on various aspects of welding: measuring weld replicas, using weld measuring gauges; laying out a plate and using oxy-acetylene equipment to cut several holes that are checked for accuracy and quality; gas metal arc welding (GMAW) on steel making welds in various positions using short circuiting transfers; and, using a combination machine capable of providing the correct welding current for shielded metal arc (SMAW) and gas tungsten arc welding (GTAW). Competitors complete the steel project and weld an aluminum project in various positions using a variety of filler metals.