Covington, VA (July 21, 2025)— Recently, the Alleghany Journal learned of several Jackson River Technical Students (JRTC) who competed in both the National Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) and SkillsUSA here in Virginia.
HOSA is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, the Department of Health and Human Services, and both state and federal agencies. As a student-led organization, HOSA's mission, according to their site, "is to empower HOSA-future Health Professionals to become leaders in global health community, through education, collaboration, and experience."
This year's HOSA National Conference was held in Nashville, TN from June 18-21. Several JRTC students participated, and were accompanied by Johnell Cantrell, JRTC Nurse Aide Teacher and HOSA advisor. Those who participated were as follows:
Emma Linkenhoker-JRTC Anatomage Tournament Team
Maleah Holloway-JRTC Anatomage Tournament Team
Brooklynn Hicks-JRTC Anatomage Tournament Team and Representing Virginia in Clinical Nursing Competition
Haley Harmon-JRTC Anatomage Tournament Team
Tyra Rose-JRTC Anatomage Tournament Team
Laney McCormick-JRTC Anatomage Tournament Team
Meanwhile, SkillsUSA has been recognized as the top workforce development organization for students in the country. Akin to HOSA, it also empowers students "to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders and responsible community members." This year's national conference was held in Atlanta, GA, from June 23-27.
Representing both JRTC and Virginia as a whole was Davin May. May competed in the Welding Competition, placing 9th in the nation. He was accompanied by Jamie Huffman, JRTC Welding Instructor and a SkillsUSA advisor.
|  | (From L to R) Jamie Huffman and Davin May travelled to Atlanta, GA, to ensure May could compete in the national SkillsUSA competition. (Photo Courtesy of Josh Craft, Principal of JRTC)
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