Last week, Skills USA held their National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta. With over 17,000 attendees, this is the largest gathering of America’s future skilled workforce. The conference celebrates the trade workforce with competitions to award students for excellence in their respective industries.

In the baking competition, CACC student Amelie Crane took first place. In the culinary competition, another local student, Jessie Arnett, was awarded third place. Previously, both CACC students won first place for their respective skills at the SkillsUSA state competition, before attending the national contest. This massive victory for the students showcases the talent within our community and great promise for the future of Columbia’s culinary landscape.

These impressive students from CACC are instructed by Chef Brook Harlan — Inside Columbia‘s very own food editor and columnist!