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SkillsUSA's National Leadership & Skills Conference 2026: A Highlight of Workforce Development

From June 1 to June 5, 2026, Atlanta will host the National Leadership & Skills Conference (NLSC) organized by SkillsUSA, the country's preeminent organization dedicated to cultivating a competent workforce. This event will welcome over 19,000 attendees, including students from middle schools, high schools, and postsecondary institutions, as well as educators and industry representatives eager to celebrate the achievements and skills of America’s rising talent.

Celebrating Skilled Achievements

The NLSC stands as a testament to the importance of career and technical education (CTE) in the U.S. workforce landscape. SkillsUSA is committed to recognizing and celebrating the achievements of outstanding CTE students. This year, the conference will feature the much-anticipated SkillsUSA Championships, where over 6,800 state champions will compete in 115 varied competitions, ranging from construction and transportation to culinary arts and cosmetology. These competitions not only celebrate the skills of each participant but also underscore the importance of hands-on training in addressing the skills gap in America’s workforce.

The expansive venue at the Georgia World Congress Center spans approximately 1.8 million square feet, roughly equivalent to 31 football fields, providing ample space for competitions, exhibitions, and collaborative opportunities. "NLSC is an essential gathering for anyone interested in workforce development and CTE," stated SkillsUSA Executive Director Chelle Travis. "We celebrate students who not only learn skills—they put them into action and demonstrate their capabilities under pressure."

Hub for Industry and Innovation

Running parallel to the championships from June 2 to June 4 is SkillsUSA TECHSPO, one of the largest technical education expos in the United States. This event will feature over 200 industry partners from various leading companies and educational institutions, serving as a dynamic platform for networking and collaboration. It promises to forge connections between students and industry leaders, shaping the future of skilled professions.

Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in professional development workshops, attend two impactful general sessions, and participate in three community service projects designed to benefit the local Atlanta community. The educational elements and hands-on experiences provided throughout the conference reinforce SkillsUSA’s mission of developing responsible leaders and professionals ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

Opening Session Featuring Indy 500 Champion

On Tuesday, June 2, the conference will kick off with a vibrant Opening Session at State Farm Arena, featuring keynote speaker Josef Newgarden. Newgarden, an accomplished IndyCar driver and two-time Indianapolis 500 champion, will share his experiences and insights on teamwork, perseverance, and success in competitive environments. This session is set to inspire attendees and highlight the importance of supporting student competitors.

Furthermore, this session will also introduce SkillsUSA competitors who have been selected to represent the United States at the WorldSkills International competition scheduled for September 22-27 in Shanghai, competing across various disciplines such as Automobile Technology, Culinary Arts, and Welding, showcasing America's skilled talent on a global stage.

Support and Sponsorship

The 2026 NLSC is presented in partnership with Aerotek, a renowned workplace solutions provider, highlighting the importance of collaboration between industry and education. Snap-on Inc. also lends its support by sponsoring the keynote address, further emphasizing the role of leading organizations in promoting workforce development efforts.

The overwhelming participation and enthusiasm from industry representatives and sponsors illustrate the collective commitment to nurturing and empowering America's skilled workforce.

Join the Movement

This year also introduces an exciting opportunity for the public to join in on the celebration, with day passes available for attendees on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. This initiative reflects SkillsUSA’s dedication to inclusivity and community involvement.

Students and educators from all 50 states, two territories, and Washington D.C. will gather in Atlanta, ready to learn and grow within a robust network of aspiring professionals. For additional information about the event or to purchase tickets, visit NLSC.skillsusa.org.

SkillsUSA is not just an event; it’s a movement dedicated to creating a skilled and capable workforce. Representing over 444,000 CTE students and teachers across the nation, SkillsUSA continues to be a vital contributor to bridging the skills gap in critical industries since its establishment in 1965. Discover more at skillsusa.org and connect with us on social media.

Join us at the 2026 National Leadership & Skills Conference as we celebrate the talents and skills of future leaders, paving the way for successful career paths and community contributions.