My name is Cole Maggi, I grew up in Salem, Virginia. I had a pretty simple upbringing and loved being outside, fishing, and working with my hands. I was always helping my dad with projects around the house and learning how to do projects myself.

Going into high school I didn't know what I wanted to do. There were so many options, but I knew I didn't want a desk job or to look at a computer all day. Once I figured that out I started looking at going down the trade route, the only thing at the time I knew about trades was you got to work outside and get your hands dirty. SkillsUSA offers so many good trade options it was hard to choose.

I ended up going with welding, at the time as a freshman/sophomore I didn't really know anything about it, I knew you used fire and stuck stuff together. There was so much more to it than that, I had Mr. Graham at Salem High School who taught welding. We were always pushed to grow and learn and be successful. I ended up taking welding for two and a half years in high school and came out of high school with several certifications. SkillsUSA can really set you up to succeed, I graduated with a well-paying position that offered great benefits. It was not just a job, it was a career. In the last three years, I have been promoted and have been successful as the position provides for my wife and me. It all started from one decision I made to try out welding and SkillsUSA in high school, turning out to be one of the best choices I have ever made.

SkillsUSA-VA Foundation End of Year Campaign 2025

By SkillsUSA Virginia Foundation

SkillsUSA-VA Foundation End of Year Campaign 2025

SkillsUSA Virginia Alumni Success Story

Team Members