Level Up

Our 2026–2027 annual theme challenges every SkillsUSA member to grow, lead, and achieve more—advancing beyond today to reach a higher standard of excellence.

ANNUAL THEME

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What “Level Up” Means?

To “Level Up” is to advance or improve one’s life, skills, or situation. It means moving beyond the basic requirements to achieve a higher standard of skill, responsibility, and leadership. It signifies taking the next step in development, whether that’s mastering a new technique, earning a certification, or taking on a leadership role. This theme is a call to action—to challenge ourselves, support one another, and commit to continuous, measurable advancement.

Three Pillars of Leveling Up

Grow
Develop new skills, expand knowledge, and pursue opportunities that elevate your potential.
Lead
Step up with confidence, inspire others, and take ownership of your path and your impact.
Achieve
Set higher goals, meet expectations, and exceed them—striving for excellence in everything you do.

Growth in SkillsUSA happens through action. From chapter involvement and statewide initiatives to conferences, competitions, leadership roles, and service, each experience helps members build confidence, sharpen skills, and take the next step forward.

Ways to Level Up Your SkillsUSA Experience

Get Involved in Your Chapter
Participate in chapter meetings, activities, projects, and events that help build your SkillsUSA experience from the ground up.
EXPLORE →
Compete & Showcase Your Skills
Challenge yourself through competitive events that allow you to apply your learning, strengthen your skills, and demonstrate excellence.
EXPLORE →
Attend Conferences & Events
Experience SkillsUSA beyond the classroom through conferences, statewide programs, workshops, and other member experiences.
EXPLORE →
Step Into Leadership
Strengthen your confidence and leadership by taking initiative, guiding others, and pursuing opportunities to serve.
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Serve Your Community
Put your skills and leadership into action through service projects that strengthen your school and community.
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Build Career Connections
Connect with advisors, peers, alumni, and business and industry partners while exploring future career opportunities.
EXPLORE →
LEVEL UP THROUGH PARTICIPATION
Get Involved in Your Chapter
Your local chapter is one of the best places to begin expanding your SkillsUSA experience. Participating regularly helps build confidence, responsibility, teamwork, and a stronger connection to your school community.

Ways to level up:
• Attend chapter meetings and events
• Participate in chapter activities and committees
• Help plan projects and outreach efforts
• Support membership and chapter engagement
LEVEL UP THROUGH COMPETITION
Compete & Showcase Your Skills
Competitive experiences challenge members to apply what they have learned, strengthen technical and professional skills, prepare effectively, and demonstrate excellence.

Ways to level up:
• Participate in local and state competitive events
• Prepare for the SkillsUSA Championships
• Practice technical and employability skills
• Use feedback to improve future performance
LEVEL UP THROUGH EXPERIENCE
Attend Conferences & Events
Conferences and statewide experiences give members opportunities to learn, meet new people, strengthen leadership skills, and experience the broader SkillsUSA community.

Ways to level up:
• Attend leadership conferences and statewide events
• Participate in workshops and learning sessions
• Take part in statewide initiatives
• Connect with other members, advisors, and guests
LEVEL UP THROUGH LEADERSHIP
Step Into Leadership
Leadership does not require a title. Members grow as leaders whenever they take initiative, support others, communicate effectively, and contribute to the success of their chapter.

Ways to level up:
• Pursue chapter or state leadership opportunities
• Lead a meeting, activity, or project
• Mentor and support other members
• Strengthen communication and teamwork skills
LEVEL UP THROUGH SERVICE
Serve Your Community
Service allows members to put their skills into action while building teamwork, responsibility, and a stronger connection to the people around them.

Ways to level up:
• Participate in chapter service projects
• Support school and community initiatives
• Use career and technical skills to help others
• Work with teammates to address community needs
LEVEL UP THROUGH CONNECTION
Build Career Connections
SkillsUSA experiences can help members build relationships with advisors, business and industry partners, alumni, and peers while learning more about future career pathways.

Ways to level up:
• Connect with business and industry professionals
• Meet alumni and potential mentors
• Explore careers through workplace experiences
• Build relationships with members across Massachusetts