The University of Wisconsin-Platteville's College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture (BILSA) will welcome more than 315 students from schools across Wisconsin for the second Wisconsin SkillsUSA regional competition on Friday, Jan. 30. SkillsUSA empowers the next generation of skilled professionals and leaders. As a national nonprofit, it partners with students, teachers and industry leaders to ensure a strong workforce for America's future.

"Events like this are so valuable because of their far-reaching benefits," said Carolyn Keller, dean of the College of BILSA. "High school students gain hands-on learning experiences and opportunities to compete with peers that they might not otherwise have. They also get to see our facilities and begin thinking more seriously about college while interacting with our faculty, staff, and students."

Opening ceremonies begin at 8:15 a.m., followed by competitions from 9 a.m. to noon. Judging will take place from noon to 1 p.m., with award ceremonies immediately after. Students will demonstrate their skills in a variety of technical fields, reflecting the diverse programs offered within the College of BILSA.

In addition to the competitions, the Regional Competition will host a Future-Ready Workforce Summit from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Area business leaders, human resource directors and recruiters will meet with SkillsUSA Wisconsin team members to discuss workforce challenges and how SkillsUSA can help connect schools with skilled future employees.

Regional competitors will have the opportunity to advance to the 53rd annual Wisconsin SkillsUSA State Leadership and Skills Conference in Madison on April 7-8, the state's premier showcase of highly skilled career and technical education students.

For more information on SkillsUSA Wisconsin visit SkillsUSA.