Chattooga High School Career and Technical Education students are in Atlanta this week competing at one of the state’s largest Career and Technical Education events.

The 2026 SkillsUSA Georgia State Leadership and Skills Conference (SLSC) is being held February 19–21 at the Georgia World Congress Center. The event kicked off Thursday with middle school competitions, while high school students — including competitors from Chattooga High School — are taking part in contests Friday.

SkillsUSA is considered Georgia’s premier showcase for career and technical education students. This year’s conference features 155 championships highlighting student talent in fields such as construction, graphic communications, health science, human services, law and public safety, television and film, transportation, and leadership.

Leadership events include competitions such as Career Exploration Portfolio, Community Service Project, and Job Interview, along with hands-on trade competitions that test real-world technical skills.

Organizers expect up to 10,000 students, educators, industry professionals, postsecondary institutions, and community leaders to attend the three-day event. The conference serves as a major networking and career-building opportunity for students preparing to enter the workforce or continue their education.

The annual conference brings together some of the most skilled middle and high school CTE students from across Georgia, all competing under this year’s theme to “Champion Your Future.”

Local supporters are cheering on Chattooga High School’s competitors as they represent Northwest Georgia on the state stage.