NTCC’s Arlendra Zenon Recognized as 2026 SkillsUSA Advisor of the Year

LACOMBE, La. — Northshore Technical Community College (NTCC) is proud to announce that Arlendra Zenon has been named the SkillsUSA Advisor of the Year at the 2026 State Conference, a prestigious honor recognizing outstanding leadership, dedication to student success, and excellence in career and technical education.

The SkillsUSA Advisor of the Year award is presented annually to an advisor who demonstrates exceptional commitment to developing student leaders, strengthening workforce readiness, and advancing the mission of SkillsUSA. This recognition highlights advisors who go above and beyond in guiding students to achieve both personal and professional success through hands-on learning, leadership development, and industry-aligned training.

Zenon, who has served as a SkillsUSA advisor for 17 years, has played a pivotal role in expanding NTCC’s chapter and creating meaningful opportunities for student engagement. Under her leadership, the college’s SkillsUSA membership has grown consistently by approximately 10–15% each year. For the past four consecutive years, NTCC has maintained the highest SkillsUSA membership among all colleges in the Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS). In 2026 alone, more than 130 students and advisors participated in the program, reflecting its continued growth and impact.

Her long-standing commitment to empowering students and fostering leadership skills has helped shape a culture of excellence within NTCC’s SkillsUSA chapter. This recognition marks a significant milestone in her career and underscores the collective efforts of students, faculty, and the college community.

“We are incredibly proud of Arlendra Zenon and the leadership she demonstrates every day,” said Dr. Jim Carlson, Chancellor of Northshore Technical Community College. “Being named SkillsUSA Advisor of the Year is a well-deserved recognition of her dedication to our students and her commitment to excellence. Her leadership continues to inspire, elevate our programs, and make a lasting impact on student success across our college.”

Zenon’s achievement reflects not only her individual excellence, but also the strength of NTCC’s commitment to providing students with real-world skills, leadership development, and pathways to successful careers.