June 17, 2026 — To help develop and showcase future skilled trades professionals, the Copper Development Association (CDA) proudly participated in the 2026 SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference, continuing more than two decades of support for one of the nation’s premier showcases of career and technical education. Working alongside the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (PHCC) Educational Foundation, CDA representatives provided materials, technical expertise, judging support, and volunteer leadership for the national plumbing competition held at the Georgia World Congress Center.
The annual SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference brings together top-performing students from across the United States and Puerto Rico who have advanced through state-level competitions to compete on a national stage. SkillsUSA highlights excellence across a wide range of career and technical disciplines, including plumbing, construction, HVAC, culinary arts, ornamental design, résumé writing, and many other vocational fields. Thousands of outstanding students compete hands-on against the clock in 115 different trade, technical, and leadership competitions – such as electronics, computer-aided drafting (CAD), precision machining, medical assisting and more.
Mike Belanger, CDA Project Manager, explained:
SkillsUSA represents the very best of career and technical education. These students have already proven themselves at the state level, and now they’re competing against the best in the country. Participation at the national level is a tremendous accomplishment that demonstrates both technical skill and commitment to their chosen profession.
Showcasing the nation’s top trade talent
The national plumbing competition challenges approximately 50 contestants to construct a complete bathroom rough-in installation from a detailed blueprint in 11-1/2 hours over two days. Participants must install components, including a water closet, lavatory sink, floor drain, and associated piping systems, in accordance with strict specifications and industry standards.
For many students, the event provides their first opportunity to work extensively with materials such as copper tube and cast iron piping in a competitive environment.
Belanger remarked:
Imagine building an entire plumbing system from scratch while working against the clock and surrounded by 49 other highly skilled competitors. It’s an incredible test of both technical ability and composure under pressure.
CDA encourages contractors, manufacturers, engineers, educators, and industry professionals to become involved with organizations and programs that support workforce development. Participation can include volunteering, mentoring students, donating materials, or engaging with professional organizations such as PHCC, the United Association (UA), ASPE, ASHRAE, IAPMO and NFPA.
Belanger concluded:
Everybody should give a little. Whether it’s mentoring, volunteering, or simply attending an industry meeting, every contribution helps strengthen the future workforce. If we can help even one young person find a rewarding career path, that’s meaningful.
Learn more about the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference, SkillsUSA training and the NLSC 2026 Medalists, visit SkillsUSA.
