More than 145 high school students from across Southern Arizona are set to demonstrate their trade expertise at the 2026 SkillsUSA Region 6 Construction Competition in Tucson.
Hosted at Catalina Magnet High School, the event brings together students eager to showcase hands-on skills in a field that continues to see strong demand statewide and nationally.
Organized with support from the Arizona Builders Alliance, the competition highlights both technical ability and the growing interest in skilled trades among the next generation.
Scheduled for Feb. 20, the competition will feature seven construction trade categories judged by industry professionals. Students will compete in:
Each event is designed to simulate real-world jobsite conditions. Participants will be evaluated on precision, safety practices, problem-solving abilities, and time management. From framing structures and assembling cabinetry to completing electrical wiring installations, students must meet professional standards under competitive pressure.
The contest not only tests technical knowledge but also soft skills such as communication and collaboration—critical traits in modern construction environments.
Kim Davids, President of the Arizona Builders Alliance, will join other construction professionals in serving as judges and chaperones during the event. Their involvement offers students direct exposure to potential employers and mentors within the industry.
The Arizona Builders Alliance has played a key role in shaping the state’s construction workforce for more than three decades, focusing on education initiatives, professional networking, and advocacy for workforce development.
Events like the SkillsUSA Region 6 competition are seen as vital pipelines into apprenticeships, technical colleges, and immediate employment opportunities. With construction continuing to expand across Arizona—driven by infrastructure projects, residential growth, and commercial development—the need for trained labor remains high.
For many students, this competition represents more than a classroom exercise. It is an opportunity to earn recognition, build resumes, and potentially qualify for higher-level SkillsUSA competitions at the state and national levels.
As demand for skilled trades rises and college alternatives gain renewed attention, Southern Arizona’s young builders are stepping forward—tools in hand—to shape the region’s future workforce.
Originally reported by Edgar Lopez in KVOA.
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