State Leadership and Skills Conference

March 15-18, 2026

Chattanooga Convention Center | Chattanooga, TN

SkillsUSA Tennessee’s State Leadership and Skills Conference is the premier event for the future workforce in the state. This exciting conference brings together students, advisors, and industry partners for the SkillsUSA Championships, leadership development, and career exploration. It’s a unique opportunity to showcase skills, celebrate achievements, and connect with peers and professionals.

Conference Highlights

  • A room full of SkillsUSA members work on their laptops as part of their competition.

    SkillsUSA Championships

    The SkillsUSA Championships challenge student members to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and creativity in areas ranging from technical expertise and career-focused projects to leadership and public speaking.

  • Five SkillsUSA members work as a team to solve a problem during a workshop session.

    Leadership Development Sessions

    Interactive workshops are focused on building essential leadership, communication, and teamwork skills to empower students for personal and professional success.

  • Conference attendees interact with a SkillsUSA Partner to learn more about them.

    College & Career Fair

    Student members have the opportunity to connect with representatives from leading colleges, universities, and industry partners, offering invaluable insights and opportunities for future education and career pathways.

Key Information

Cost

  • Registration:

    • $85 per conference attendee​

    • $50 per courtesy corps attendee

  • Hotel: Up to $284 per room per night

Important Dates

  • December 12 | Middle School and High School Conference Pin and T-Shirt Design Submissions Due

  • January 16 | SkillsUSA Tennessee Affiliation Deadline for All Members

  • January 20 | Registration Opens

  • January 27 | Registration Closes

  • February 2 | Housing Opens

  • February 6 | Housing Closes

  • February 6 | CEP Applications Due

  • February 10 | Testing Opens

  • February 17 | Testing Closes

  • February 20 | Payment Due

  • February 20 | Chapter Certification Form Due

  • March 15-18 | State Leadership and Skills Conference

Get Involved

  • Two SkillsUSA members pose for a photo.

    Volunteer

    Volunteer as a SkillsUSA Championships judge to evaluate student projects and presentations.

    Volunteer
  • SkillsUSA members interact with exhibitors.

    Exhibit

    Exhibit during our college and career fair, showcasing opportunities available to students.

    Exhibit
  • Conference attendees interact with college and career fair exhibitors.

    Sponsor

    Provide financial support for the conference, allowing students to attend this unique educational experience.

    Sponsor

Questions?

Submit a support request, and a member of our team will get back to you shortly.

Future Dates

Planning ahead? Here are the confirmed dates for the upcoming SkillsUSA Tennessee State Leadership and Skills Conference to help you prepare for the year ahead. While these dates are set, there’s always a small chance they could shift if changes are needed.

April 11-14, 2027 | Chattanooga, Tennessee