The Copper Development Association (CDA) recently 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 event 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.
"SkillsUSA represents the very best of career and technical education," says Mike Belanger, CDA project manager. "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."
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.
"Imagine building an entire plumbing system from scratch while working against the clock and surrounded by 49 other highly skilled competitors," Belanger says. "It's an incredible test of both technical ability and composure under pressure."
CDA representatives also serve as judges during the competition, evaluating contestants according to detailed industry criteria. Installations are scored using a computerized system that measures adherence to blueprint specifications, dimensional accuracy, workmanship, and code-compliant practices.
Following the competition, judges meet with participants to review results, answer questions, and gather feedback that helps improve future events.
"CDA's mission is heavily focused on education," Belanger says. "A large part of what we do is helping teach proper techniques, best practices, and the thought process behind quality workmanship. SkillsUSA provides an outstanding platform to reinforce those lessons."
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.
“Everybody should give a little,” Belanger says. “Whether it’s mentoring, volunteering, or simply attending an industry meeting, every contribution helps strengthen the future workforce.”
Belanger notes that supporting students entering the skilled trades can have a profound impact on individual lives and communities.
“If we can help even one young person find a rewarding career path, that’s meaningful,” he says. “That’s why we continue to invest our time and resources in programs like SkillsUSA. Supporting these students and helping develop the next generation of skilled professionals is one of the most rewarding things we do.”
