July 14, 2025
Abigail Phillips, an Early Childhood Care and Education student at Southeastern Technical College (STC), brought home a Gold Medal at the 2025 SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference. The event, held in June at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, brought together more than 6,000 students nationwide to compete in hands-on, skills-based contests aligned with real workforce needs.
Phillips took her talents to the national arena and won the Early Childhood Education competition, distinguishing herself among elite students from across the United States.
“Bringing home the gold feels amazing,” said Phillips. “There was strong competition in the room from students all across the United States. I’m incredibly thankful for everyone who supported me and those who were cheering for me during the state and national competitions.”
The SkillsUSA championships are known for turning competition into career momentum. The national conference is the country’s largest showcase of career and technical education talent, featuring more than 114 competitions judged by industry professionals. Competitors often walk away with job offers.
Phillips showcased her talents in preparing engaging, developmentally appropriate activities for young learners. She was evaluated on her ability to develop and deliver lesson plans, demonstrate effective teaching strategies, present a read-along, and complete a formal interview.
Phillips began at Southeastern Tech in August 2022 and is nearing completion of an associate degree. She was joined at the national conference by her instructor, Mindy Sumner, who has guided her throughout her program.
Kay Wilson, Program Director for Early Childhood Care and Education, praised both the student and the instructor. “Mrs. Sumner and I have observed Abigail in multiple internship settings, and she is phenomenal. Her classroom management, planning, and rapport with children and parents are top-notch. Mrs. Sumner’s experience in the public elementary classroom was a stepping stone to her excellence in post-secondary instruction, where she has flourished, which is shown in Abigail’s success.”
Sumner said of Phillips, “She is a natural educator. She is so genuine and loves what she does. Abigail truly loves children and is perfect for this profession. Her heart, her drive, and her skill make her one of the most outstanding students I’ve had the pleasure of teaching. I am truly blessed to have her in my program.”
Beyond the competition, the SkillsUSA National Conference offered Phillips valuable professional development and inspiration. Phillips said one standout moment came during the opening ceremony when television host and skilled trades advocate Mike Rowe addressed the crowd. “Something that resonated with me in Mike Rowe’s speech was the idea of a ‘toolbox’ — the idea that everyone has their own unique combination of talents, skills, and life experiences. His point was, we each have to apply our tools in ways that make sense for our path,” said Phillips. “My toolbox has been built through working in a children’s center, assisting teachers at my former high school, and attending STC. My college experience and instruction at Southeastern Tech tied it all together, giving me the knowledge I needed. All these experiences are preparing me for my career, and I couldn’t be more excited for what’s ahead.”
Phillips also shared, “Participating in these competitions and meeting others with the same drive, I have gained more confidence in my career path. I’m more excited than ever to keep learning and encouraging others to teach.”
STC President Larry Calhoun said, “STC is incredibly proud of Abigail. Not only did she demonstrate how talented she is against the best competition in the U.S., but she is an even better person. We wish this remarkable young lady all the best as she continues her career.”
The Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) students earned 37 medals at the 2025 SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference, contributing to a total of 44 medals for the state and placing Georgia #9 nationally in overall medal count. Representing TCSG, students earned 11 gold, 11 silver, and 15 bronze medals.
Photo (L-R): Gold Medalist Abigail Phillips and STC Early Childhood Care and Education Instructor Mindy Sumner at SkillsUSA National Conference in Atlanta
