Colleagues,
We are pleased to share this recognition which was included in the latest Massachusetts SkillsUSA Newsletter.
| Meet Our Volunteer:
Ernest F. Houle |
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| Ernest F. Houle of Leominster, MA, is a lifelong advocate for career and technical education and a proud alumnus of Leominster Trade High School, where he graduated from the Metal Fabrication and Welding Program in 1988.
His journey with SkillsUSA began in 1986 as a sophomore when he joined the Vocational Industrial Clubs of America (VICA). |
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| Ernest competed in the VICA competitions, earning a Silver Medal at the District level and a Gold Medal at the State level in 1988, ultimately placing 11th in the nation at the VICA National Leadership and Skills Conference. His early leadership experience also includes attending the inaugural 1-Day Fall Leadership Conference in 1987.
Following graduation, Ernest remained committed to the organization, volunteering in multiple capacities—including judging the State Welding Competitions and supporting conference operations. He began teaching welding at Minuteman Regional Technical High School in 1996 and served as both a shop and chapter advisor for SkillsUSA-VICA. Now serving as Superintendent-Director at Assabet Valley RVSD, Ernest continues to champion SkillsUSA through administrative support and board leadership, including his current role on the Massachusetts SkillsUSA Board of Directors. He also actively assists in mentoring state officers during their national leadership training in Washington, D.C.
He shared, “Volunteering for Massachusetts SkillsUSA is my way of giving back to the organization that helped shape who I am. It’s an honor to support the next generation of leaders and skilled professionals, just as others once did for me.” |
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