Taking home the gold

Viktoriya Semenenko

Going for the gold both in and out of the classroom, Viktoriya Semenenko, a 2024 graduate of Seneca Valley and Butler County Area Vocational Technical School (BCAVTS), placed first at the SkillsUSA National Championship.

Miss Semenenko competed in Advertising Design and received a gold medal at the SkillsUSA Pennsylvania State Competition, advancing her to the National Championship where more than 6,500 other state champions competed for national gold, silver and bronze medals in 115 skilled and leadership competitions.

The Advertising Design competition lasted three days, assessing both technical skills and creative aptitude, simulating the experience of working in an advertising agency. Competitors took a written test and recreated an advertisement, and were evaluated on accuracy, software proficiency and the ability to meet deadlines. The competitors developed logos, a company mascot, advertising materials, sketches and packaging for a brand called “Our Food Slaps,” a fun, youthful fast-food restaurant. Additionally, the competition featured a creative segment that tested their creative thinking and design skills.

“Over the past year, leading up to this national competition, I’ve been marketing myself on Instagram,” said Miss Semenenko. “Clients came to me for logos, designs, T-shirt designs and even truck wraps. While I wouldn’t say the competition was easy, I felt well-prepared thanks to the skills and experience I had developed, and I knew what was necessary to make my work stand out.”

SkillsUSA is a program offered through the Butler County Area Vocational-Technical School, and it is a partnership of students, teachers and industry representatives working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce. SkillsUSA helps each student to excel. This national organization serves teachers and high school and college students who are preparing for careers in technical, skilled and service occupations, including health occupations and for further education.

“When the finalists were announced, I was so nervous I couldn’t even process what was on the screen,” added Miss Semenenko. “I was thrilled and relieved, especially after last year when I placed 17th in the nation despite high expectations. This year was different, and when they called my name for first place, I was beyond excited. All the hard work truly paid off!”

The SkillsUSA National Championship was held in conjunction with the SkillsUSA’s National Leadership & Skills Conference (NLSC) in Atlanta, GA, June 24-28, 2024. SkillsUSA’s NLSC is the largest gathering of America’s future skilled workforce and the ultimate recognition of excellence in career and technical education. The NLSC is a week-long celebration of the skilled trades and the accomplishments of career-ready leaders from across the United States. The event brings together more than 16,000 attendees, including students, instructors, industry partners, government officials, administrators and more.