About Us
Our Framework is the Difference
SkillsUSA’s mission is accomplished through the SkillsUSA Framework of Personal Skills, WorkplaceSkills, and Technical Skills Grounded in Academics. Created with the help of our industry partners, the Framework is the blueprint for career readiness, and it’s the foundation for all we do. Through the Framework, students develop crucial career and life skills —communication, teamwork, professionalism, computer and technology literacy, integrity and many more — that set them apart from their peers. We call it “the SkillsUSA difference,” and the Framework makes it happen.
Post-Secondary Officers
State President
My name is Sam Carpenter, and I am your Wisconsin Post-Secondary SkillsUSA State President. I am currently attending Midstate Technical College for a technical diploma as a Precision Machining Technician. This is my second year of involvement in Skills, and I am currently in my second year of college. Outside of school, I enjoy hanging out with my friends and family. I am an Eagle Scout and former competitive cross-country runner, and I enjoy participating in community events. I also enjoy spending time outdoors, engaging in activities such as hunting, fishing, skiing, and golfing.
Sam Carpenter
State Vice President
Hello. My name is Emma Schwantes, and I am your 2025-2026 Wisconsin Post-Secondary SkillsUSA State Vice President. I have been a member of SkillsUSA for about five years. I graduated with an associate’s degree in Mechanical Design Technology and am currently working toward a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. I attend Madison Area Technical College. In my free time, I enjoy crocheting, reading, and 3D printing. I also volunteer with my former high school’s SkillsUSA chapter, helping teach students and prepare them for their competitions. I am glad to be part of your state officer team!
Emma Schwantes
State Secretary
Hi, my name is Dani Casperson, and I am your 2025-26 SkillsUSA State Secretary. I am going into my second year at Madison Area Technical College as a Graphic Design major. When I am not in class, I love to keep learning and collecting new skills.
Dani Casperson
State Parliamentarian
Hello! My name is Adalie Balster. I am one of the current state officers for SkillsUSA. I am serving as the Parliamentarian. I am currently going to MATC for Automotive Technology and will graduate in 2026. I currently work for the USAF Air National Guard at the 115th Fighter Wing as an Aircraft Mechanic. Some of my hobbies include puzzles, drawing, reading, horseback riding, and anything related to cars. I plan to work full-time at the 115th Fighter Wing after I graduate from MATC.
Adalie Balster
Post-Secondary Association Director
I’m constantly inspired by the dedication, passion, and growth I see in SkillsUSA students. Supporting their journeys, watching them develop real-world skills, and knowing we’re helping to shape tomorrow’s leaders is truly rewarding. I’m proud to be part of an organization that empowers young people to reach their full potential.
Mike Berry
Post-Secondary Associate State Director
Hi. I’m Tom Wozniak, your SkillsUSA Wisconsin Collegiate Postsecondary Associate State Director. I’m a full-time faculty member at Madison Area Technical College, teaching in the Diesel Equipment Technology and Diesel & Heavy Equipment Technician programs. I have been involved with SkillsUSA since 1996, when I judged the Diesel Technology contest for the State Leadership and Skills Conference. Throughout my career with SkillsUSA, I have served in various capacities, including judge, technical committee chair, education chair, advisor, and state director.
Tom Wozniak
SkillsUSA Wisconsin Guiding Principles
Mission Statement
SkillsUSA is America’s proud champion of the skilled trades. Our mission is to empower students to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders, and responsible community members.
Our Core Values
Integrity: Being consistent and authentic in word and action
Respect: Valuing unique experiences and being self-aware
Responsibility: Being accountable to the entire organization
Community: Valuing and belonging to a diverse community
Service: Willingly serving through the efforts of staff and volunteers