Verrado’s film team struck gold in the SkillsUSA state competition from April 7 to 8. In the summer, they will be traveling to Atlanta, GA, to compete in nationals.

The team worked hard, putting their collaboration and filmmaking skills to the test alike. After all, having a shot at nationals is no easy feat. While certainly challenged, our Vipers’ black and gold shone through as they made it to the finish line. Ivy Brown, a senior student at Verrado and longtime member of our SkillsUSA Film Team, stays humble, yet acknowledges the massive amount of work it took to get here.

“I am so thankful to have such a hardworking team that has got us this far. Each member has given this competition their all, and it really shows.” She said.

Brown then emphasized the importance of practice and repetition, and how it helps the film team continuously succeed in competitions.

“Definitely practice, I feel like if we were not on as much of a tight schedule we wouldn’t have placed first.”

Ava Cassidy, also a senior and member of the SkillsUSA Film Team, shares similar sentiments about team work.

“When you’re in a competitive environment like SkillsUSA, the best thing you can have is a supportive team. Without my teammates, I don’t know how I’d stand the pressure! Not only are they easy to rely on, but they’re some of the hardest workers I know.”

Cassidy acknowledges that the work isn’t done, though. The hardest task yet will be preparing for nationals.

“We are really intent on winning this year. Especially since it’s my last competition, I want to go out with a bang. It’s a long road ahead, but I know we can handle it.”

It’s not just the medals and trips our SkillsUSA Vipers get from the competitions, it’s friendships and lifelong connections. It’s amazing to see that our film team is more than just colleagues, they’re friends, which is likely the reason they see so much success. We will certainly be rooting for our Vipers as they head to nationals in June!