HONOLULU — Approximately 2,000 middle and high school students showcased their skills in hands-on, career-focused competitions at the annual Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSO) State Conference that was held Feb. 18-19 at the Hawai‘i Convention Center. From robotics and drone operations to business, health care and engineering challenges, students put their knowledge to the test in real-world simulations judged by industry professionals.
Representing 120 chapters across Hawai‘i DECA, Hawai‘i FFA, SkillsUSA, Hawai‘i Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA), and Hawai‘i Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA), participants competed for the opportunity to represent Hawai‘i in national tournaments.
“It’s so important because it helps bring what students are learning in the classroom to real life,” Superintendent Keith Hayashi said. “They’re applying what they learn in the classroom into real world situations here. They’re all winners.”
The event also featured interactive workshops, networking opportunities and career pathway exploration, helping students turn their passions into future professions.
“I continue to be so impressed with the Department of Education engaging with industry leaders to give different viewpoints of what’s available out there as their career pathway,” said Lt. Gov. Sylvia Luke, who attended the event on Tuesday.
The CTSO State Conference is a culminating event allowing students the opportunity to display expertise they’ve gained in the classroom. It also helps students prepare for future careers.
“In the future, I plan to probably pursue a family business or work somewhere in the entrepreneurial side of business,” said Lauren Johnson, a senior at Mililani High. “And I think these skills are really helpful because it helps me problem solve and look at all different types of situations that may come.”
With thousands of students demonstrating their talents, the CTSO State Conference highlights hands-on learning and industry partnerships in shaping Hawai‘i’s future workforce. By bridging the gap between the classroom and real-world experience, this event empowers students to turn their skills and passions into meaningful careers, ensuring a brighter future of themselves and their communities.
