Johnstown-Monroe student Maximus Mitchell wins state SkillsUSA title; headed to nationals

The Johnstown-Monroe Local Board of Education recognized senior Maximus "Max" Mitchell for winning the state SkillsUSA electrical trades competition and qualifying for the national competition.

Mr. Shipton and district leaders framed the award as evidence of the district’s career-technical work and a multi-year partnership with CEK; the program is in its second year and has produced regional and state placers. According to the board, the program gives students credentialing and hands-on workforce experience while allowing them to remain at their home high school.

Mitchell described the competition’s two parts: a code-book (written) component and a three-hour hands-on build where contestants wired switches and bent conduit. "We had a code book part ... and then a hands-on part — wired a couple switches and bent some half inch pipe," he said, describing the timed event and tools stations used in the regional and state rounds. He said he was on a waiting list for the program but later gained his first choice and that summer employment with Von Industries helped prepare him; he has a job offer noted in the meeting record.

The board wished Mitchell luck at nationals and highlighted the program as an example of career-technical education that leads to both credentials and employment opportunities for students.