The votes have been counted, and the results are in: Lydia Chenault is your new SkillsUSA President for the state of Kentucky.
This position was no easy accomplishment, as months of work was put in by Chenault to secure the spot.
“I had to create an entire campaign with a slogan and posters,” said Chenault. “I also had to do other things such as an interview with the state director and submit an application.”
This long process was not unfamiliar to Chenault, as she had previously served as a SkillsUSA officer for the state of Kentucky. This prior officer position gave Chenault an idea of what being President of SkillsUSA would look like.
“I was already being a leader in that position, but I was mainly keeping track of minutes during meetings,” said Chenault. “I now get to do a little bit of everything and I get to help run SkillsUSA for the entire state.”
The state level officer spots have always been in Chenault’s mind since her freshman year.
“When I went to the SkillsUSA Nationals in Atlanta my freshman year, I had to stay with a few of the state officers,” said Chenault. “They helped me every step of the way during the competition and they’re the reason why I wanted to become an officer.”
With her dreams coming true, the next year of her life as the Kentucky SkillsUSA President has some very exciting things in store.
“In September, I am going to the SkillsUSA leadership training in Washington, D.C.,” said Chenault. “It is right before nationals and all of the officers get to go, so I’m really excited about that.”
Throughout her years in the SkillsUSA program, Chenault has gained experience that has guided her in her state officer position and now her role as President.
“Before SkillsUSA, I was very timid,” said Chenault. “I’ve learned how to be a leader and how to communicate through SkillsUSA.”
Not only will all of the lessons learned help with her new role as President, but they will help her for the rest of her life.
“When I joined SkillsUSA and experienced new things with so many different people, it has helped me grow,” said Chenault. “Now whenever I go somewhere, I am able to approach and speak to anyone because of everything I’ve experienced in SkillsUSA.”
