Author: Tammy Lane • First Posted: Wednesday, March 11, 2009

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Southside Tech student Michael Tyree cuts trim pieces for his cabinet in the SkillsUSA competition.

When students “hit the hardwood” last week at Southside Technical Center, it had nothing to do with basketball. The smell of fresh-cut wood and the buzz of power saws filled the carpentry workshop as a half-dozen students labored over their cabinetmaking projects as part of the SkillsUSA regional competition.

In all, about 350 kids from nine area tech schools squared off in skill and leadership contests. SkillsUSA, formerly known as VICA (the Vocational Industrial Clubs of America), serves high school and college students who are preparing for careers in technical, skilled and service arenas, including health occupations.

Southside classmates Michael Tyree and J.T. Butcher got to work quickly Friday, as the cabinetmaking competitors had only two hours to interpret a blueprint, trim out the wood and assemble a cabinet with drawer.

“You just try to get everything cut and built the best you can. It’s not really about who finishes first – it’s who’s more precise,” said Michael, a senior at Henry Clay High School.

J.T., a senior at Tates Creek High, planned to prioritize and use his time wisely. “Part of the challenge is knowing (Michael) is a good woodworker,” he said.

The two are familiar with each other’s strengths and habits because they also play in the same progressive rock band, Paradigm. In fact, one reason for taking the carpentry class was to help them learn to build guitars.

Tom Weisenfeld, their instructor, said both teens can follow instructions well. “J.T. in particular has an eye for detail. He doesn’t make mistakes a lot,” Weisenfeld said.

Michael, who lives in the country and has his own woodshop, has been working with his hands for more than 10 years. “I’m not as careful (as novices) because I don’t worry as much,” he said before the SkillsUSA contest. “Having fun is the most important thing. I’m not concerned about winning. We’re just doing this to learn more.”

Other contests included automotive technology, homeland security and information technology, all held at Eastside Technical Center. The leadership events, such as prepared speech, and the awards ceremony were hosted by Bluegrass Community & Technical College. Winners will advance to April’s state competition in Louisville, where students will also have a chance to network with employers and colleges.

“When they get out in the world of work, they are going to be competing against other people. This is a chance to compare their work,” Weisenfeld said of the contests. “It’s going to be pretty competitive for jobs. You’ll have to be a couple of steps better than the next guy.”