The Journey Continues for Eagle Point High School SkillsUSA

The trip to Albany for the Oregon SkillsUSA State Championships was more than just a competition for Eagle Point students; it was an experience that pushed them to grow, connect, and discover what they’re capable of.

“We had about 50 students compete district-wide, and 27 of them medaled,” one student shared, reflecting on what became one of the most successful years for SkillsUSA. That level of success didn’t happen by accident. It came from months of preparation, teamwork, and a willingness to keep improving year after year.

For EPHS seniors Emma and Olivia, that growth was especially clear in robotics. After earning first place again this year, they pointed to the work behind the scenes, especially their documentation, as a major factor. What started as an 80-page notebook last year grew into 150 pages this season, representing more advanced programming, stronger organization, and a deeper understanding of their craft.

“It was a really good experience,” they said. “We met a lot of cool people, and we saw a lot of improvement from last year.”

“These opportunities wouldn't be available without this program. Mr. Langston is the best!” Said Ryese, EPHS Senior. 

That sense of growth extended beyond technical skills. Pryce, who earned first place in Technical Computer Applications and placed in Related Technical Math, emphasized the value of real-world connections.

“There are a lot of industry connections,” he explained. “You’re immersing yourself in a completely different environment, meeting people in the fields you want to go into and learning directly from them.”

For many students, SkillsUSA is as much about people as it is about performance.

One student competitor described it as “more than the competition, it’s about the experience, what you learn, and whom you meet.” 

Through events like Basic Healthcare, students not only demonstrate technical knowledge but also practice professionalism, learning how to communicate, stay calm under pressure, and focus on patient care.

Even when things don’t go perfectly, like equipment malfunctioning mid-competition, students walk away with confidence in what they’ve learned and pride in how far they’ve come.

For seniors, this year carries a bittersweet feeling. After years of competing, improving, and building relationships, they know this chapter is coming to a close.

“It’d be cool to have another year,” one student said, “but it’s a good experience as a final one.”

Still, many plan to stay connected, hoping to return to support future competitors, just as past students supported them.

That sense of continuity is already strong across Eagle Point School District. At the middle school level, students from White Mountain Middle School and Eagle Point Middle School are already making their mark. From strong finishes in robotics and cake decorating to standout performances in speaking and design events, these younger students are building the same foundation and preparing for the next stage of competition.

Together, students from EPHS, EPMS, and WMMS are showing what’s possible when learning is hands-on, collaborative, and connected to real-world opportunities.

Middle school medalists from EPMS and WMMS also earned top placements across multiple categories, highlighting the strength of the program at every level. 

With several gold medalists advancing, the journey isn’t over yet. Next stop: the national competition in Atlanta, Georgia, this June.

And to help get EPHS SkillsUSA students there, Red Lily will be hosting a Sign Launch event benefiting SkillsUSA on Sunday, May 17th, located at 1777 OR-238, Jacksonville, OR 97530. Students partnered with the Applegate Valley Vintners Association and community members to design and produce signage for wineries throughout the Applegate Valley. These signs were crafted by EPHS Engineering Students who applied their skills to a real-life project for the Applegate Valley wine region. 

For more information or to make a donation to SkillsUSA, please click here or scan the QR below. 

Questions? Email langstond@eaglepnt.k12.or.us