Students from dozens of Indiana high schools competed at the state fairgrounds over the weekend. The event tested their leadership, career and technical skills.

More than 800 Indiana high schoolers competed in 79 events ranging from cosmetology to carpentry to coding as part of the the state’s SkillsUSA Leadership and Skills Conference. State director Kelley Baker says the annual event reduces the stigma around career and technical education. It also raises awareness that the organization is here to help schools.

“I think we’re a hidden secret,” Baker says. “We’re like, listen this is what industry is saying is needed so we focus on that. We give our teachers the resources to be able to have that into their classrooms.”

SkillsUSA Indiana is one of nine career and technical education organizations that receive federal funds granted by the state. First place winners of state competitions will go on to compete at a national SkillsUSA conference in June.