SkillsUSA Chapter Named National Model of Excellence 

Carteret Community College proudly announces that its SkillsUSA chapter has been named a 2025 Model of Excellence Chapter. This prestigious honor is awarded to only 24 chapters nationwide and represents the highest level of recognition in the SkillsUSA Chapter Excellence Program.

Celebrating Student-Led Innovation

This national award celebrates the chapter’s outstanding use of Workplace Skills through innovative, student-led projects. These efforts bring the SkillsUSA mission to life in meaningful ways. One standout project was organized by Carteret CC’s SkillsUSA President, Breanna Turbeville.

“In October 2024, I planned an interactive Mad Scientist trunk for our campus Trunk or Treat event,” said Turbeville. “With support from fellow SkillsUSA members, we created an engaging experience that brought the community together. That project helped us earn the Chapter of Excellence Award and gave us the opportunity to compete on the national stage.”

Developing Workforce-Ready Skills

The Models of Excellence program recognizes chapters that focus on developing Personal, Workplace, and Technical Skills, as defined by the SkillsUSA Framework. At Carteret CC, students take the lead in planning and executing projects while instructors offer mentorship. This hands-on approach helps students build communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills—key qualities that employers value.

“Being named a Model of Excellence is a testament to the dedication and talent of our students and advisors,” said Dr. Tracy Mancini, President of Carteret Community College. “We are incredibly proud of their leadership, their effort, and the positive difference they are making on our campus and in our community.”

Advancing to National Competition

As a 2025 Model of Excellence Chapter, Carteret CC will advance to national competition at the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference, taking place June 24–27 in Atlanta, Georgia. There, chapter representatives will participate in finalist interviews and attend the SkillsUSA Awards Ceremony at State Farm Arena. During this event, the top three chapters in the nation will be announced.

A Season of Success

This honor caps an already remarkable season for Carteret CC’s SkillsUSA students. They earned top awards at the North Carolina SkillsUSA Championships:

March 21 – State SkillsUSA Championships

• Ryan Foreman – Mobile Electronics Installation
• Breanna Turbeville – Culinary Arts
• Trevor Torrence – Culinary Arts
• Faith Williams – Baking and Pastry
• Amelia Swacha – Baking and Pastry

April 10 – NC SkillsUSA Championships

• Andrew Couey – Marine Services Technology
• Ian Morgan – Information Services Technology
• Jasmin Mancour – Customer Service
• Jeffery Floyd – Nurse Assisting
• Amanda Heath – 5th Place, Cosmetology

In addition to the Model of Excellence honor, Carteret CC also received the Gold Chapter of Excellence Award. Only three chapters in North Carolina earned this elite status. The award recognizes high-impact programming that supports student growth and career readiness.

Looking Ahead

All first-place winners will represent North Carolina at the National Championships this June. They will compete against the best in the nation, showcasing their impressive skills and dedication.

About SkillsUSA

SkillsUSA is the nation’s premier career and technical student organization. It serves more than 442,000 students and educators annually. Its mission is to empower members to become world-class workers, career-ready leaders, and responsible community members.

Carteret CC is proud of its SkillsUSA chapter and excited for what comes next. Our students continue to rise, represent, and redefine what excellence looks like in career and technical education.