Jane Chan, 16, of Orland Park, may not yet be old enough to hold a full-time job, but that didn’t stop her from becoming one of the nation’s top contenders in a simulated job interview competition.
The Carl Sandburg High School sophomore traveled to Atlanta in June to compete at the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference, the country’s largest showcase of career and technical education. Representing Illinois in the Job Interview category, Chan advanced to the finals and earned a spot in the Top 8 nationwide, becoming a National Finalist in a field of 40 state champions.
“For Job Interview, contestants must pre-submit a resume and portfolio, including professional references, a job listing, letters of recommendation, and a cover letter,” Chan explained. “At the competition, we complete a job application, greet a receptionist, and do an interview with two judges. If you make finals, you interview again with a new panel.”
Before reaching the national stage, Chan earned her stripes at the Illinois Elite Championships, where she competed in three individual events—Job Interview, Extemporaneous Speaking, and Customer Service.
In an impressive debut year with SkillsUSA, she placed 1st in Job Interview, 2nd in Extemporaneous Speaking, and 2nd in Customer Service. Because only one participant per category can represent each state at nationals, Chan chose to move forward in the Job Interview category, ultimately representing Illinois among 39 other state champions.
“At nationals, I made it to finals and placed Top 12. It was surreal,” she said. “Winning is the fun part, but the most important aspect is the connections you make and the feedback you receive.”
Chan said the experience extended well beyond the interview room, adding that the most important part of the experience was the connections she made and the feedback she received.
“I’ve met many people from across the U.S.—including my good friend from Wyoming who placed 2nd at Nationals—and I’ll stay in touch with them. The mentors and judges gave me great advice I can carry into real life,” she said. “This isn’t just a competition; it’s a learning experience that prepares you for the future.”
SkillsUSA, which hosts 114 different contests from welding to culinary arts, draws more than 17,500 students, teachers, industry professionals, and government leaders each year for the week-long event.
The Job Interview category simulates a real-world employment process, aiming to help students develop communication, professional presentation, and career readiness.
With her eyes on the future, as she enters her junior year this fall, Chan already knows the path she wants to take.
“I have aspirations to be in the business field,” she said. “I plan to attend a college with a strong program in business and continue to build my skills.”
She also hopes more students will discover the value of programs like SkillsUSA.
“More people should get involved with this and electives at their school—it’s such a great way to prepare for your career.”
Congratulations!! So happy for you – and you should be so proud!
Good luck with your future plans!