SkillsUSA is a leading workforce development organization for students, empowering them to become skilled professionals, career-ready leaders, and responsible community members.

In 2013, SME partnered with Stratasys to develop the SkillsUSA additive manufacturing competition. The competition introduces the next generation of manufacturers to emerging additive manufacturing technologies, while providing them with hands-on, real-world experience they can apply to commercial products. Student teams complete activities that range from designing and printing objects that help streamline factory processes to solving real-life problems. Since 2013, 693 high school and postsecondary students have participated. 

Members of the winning teams are awarded scholarships, 3D printers, and other valuable resources.