Nooksack Valley High School students presented at the recent Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) leadership conference in Bellevue, an opportunity for the students to showcase their skills while attending workshop and connecting with others across the state. 
 
Chase Hughes, presenting in video game and simulation development, advanced to the final round of competition and earned first place, qualifying him for a spot at the national competition this summer in California. Jacqueline Rodriguez-Mendoza, presenting in digital video production, earned 10th place. Blue Hankins and Shaylee Ostrander participated in broadcast journalism and Rachel Woodrich in public service announcement. 
 
Owen Craig, NVHS FBLA advisor was also a speaker and exhibitor, hosting sessions on careers in esports featuring a panel of industry professionals and exhibiting at the Washington State Scholastic Esports Association’s booth. 
 
“Watching Nooksack Valley students compete against the best in the state was inspiring,” Craig says. “Each competitor took on events without formal training in their category, from video editing to journalism to game development, learning skills on their own time out of genuine passion. We are extremely proud of these students for taking the initiative to compete, pursue their interests and excel.”