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CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla - For the fourth consecutive year, students from Charlotte Technical College (CTC) represented Charlotte County at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference held June 23–28 in Atlanta, Georgia. Students competed against top qualifiers from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands—and they did not come home empty-handed. SkillsUSA is the nation’s leading workforce development organization for students, preparing them to become career-ready leaders and skilled professionals.

Aydan Brady, a postsecondary Culinary Arts student at CTC, earned first place in the national competition and was awarded a full scholarship to The Culinary Institute of America, one of the most prestigious culinary schools in the country. Competitors in this division are evaluated on their butchery, knife skills, sanitation, food preparation, and execution of multiple dishes, including stocks, entrees, and custards, in a rigorous five-hour practical exam.

“This is all in God’s hands and His will,” said Brady, who is 20 years old, newly married, and currently the Head Chef at UnWined in Punta Gorda. “Without the support of Chef Osborne and my wife, Naomi, none of this would have been possible. I am grateful for everything.”

Naomi Brady, who also competed in the Baking and Pastry division, did not place but proudly supported her husband from the sidelines. “Naomi is a wonderful baker and has a bright future ahead,” staff noted.

Additional competitors from Charlotte Technical College included:

This was Seth Allen’s second appearance at the national conference. In 2024, he brought home third place in the Cybersecurity Team event. While the IT students did not medal this year, their experience was memorable and meaningful. “For Ryan, it was his first time inside a major arena,” said Megan Hornstein, CTC IT Instructor and SkillsUSA Advisor. “He soaked up every opportunity to network with peers across disciplines. I’m proud of both students who gave it their all. SkillsUSA is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

“We’re incredibly proud of the hard work and passion our students showed at the SkillsUSA National Leadership Conference,” said Cynthia Gulsby, director of Charlotte Technical College. “Competing at this level is a huge accomplishment. A special shoutout to Aydan Brady for bringing home the gold—an achievement that reflects his dedication and the quality of training we provide. We can’t wait to see what’s next for all of these talented students.”

For more information about Charlotte Technical College and its programs, visit: