Applause filled and echoed throughout the room. On April 23, 2025, Janie Wilcox said goodbye to her final state competition as Wyoming SkillsUSA director.
A state SkillsUSA director holds several responsibilities, including overseeing all school chapters within the state and CTE-related events and state conferences. Representing the state meant several eyes watching the director’s every move, and every time they looked at Wilcox, she left them impressed.
For sixteen years, Wilcox proudly held on to that position and led with determination envied by all. After a series of sleepless nights, never-ending phone calls, personal visits, and gripping dedication, Janie Wilcox will retire after the SkillsUSA year of 2025.
Touching the lives of many, Janie leaves a legacy of dedication to the organization of SkillsUSA that no one will ever forget. Incoming state director Shawna Reichart admires her incredible abilities and is grateful for the constant support she’s been given from Janie.
“Janie Wilcox is the heart of SkillsUSA Wyoming,” Reichart said. “She’s not just a leader—she’s a guiding light. Dependable, kind, and visionary, Janie leads with grace, humility, and an unwavering focus on students. She faces conflict with wisdom and compassion, always asking, ‘What is best for the kids?’ Her calm strength and thoughtful presence make everyone around her better.”
Incoming state officer, a junior at Powell High School, Brooklyn Neves got the opportunity to meet Janie Wilcox before taking the job. Neves is grateful for the chance to work with her before she began as a state officer.
“She was incredibly nice and always ready to help,” Neves said. “She was an amazing mentor when I needed help with Skills, and I regret that I won’t have the opportunity to work with her this year as an officer.”
Admiration towards Wilcox expands beyond her encounters with students. Current state officers note their appreciation for having her as a mentor.
“Janie is the type of person that makes everyone feel comfortable and heard,” SkillsUSA state officer Victoria Beaudry. “She’s such a wonderful human and mentor.”
Declan Hutchison, an additional state officer, looks up to Wilcox as a prominent figure and someone who made his time as a state officer enjoyable.
“Janie is a mentor and someone that will always encourage you,” Hutchison said. “She is someone who believes and motivates. Being around her is always so much fun and never boring.”
Hunter Barton was a previous state officer for the year 2024. He notes he will never forget the time spent with Wilcox and the impact she made on his life.
“I will forever cherish the time I’ve spent with Janie and the impact she’s had on my life,” Barton said. “Without meeting her, I wouldn’t be who I am. I am truly proud to say that Janie has been a part of my life, and working with her in SkillsUSA is an experience I will no doubt never forget.”
Reichart began her incoming state director responsibilities in October of 2024. Since then she has been provided support from Wilcox, who graciously mentored and led Reichart to fill the shoes of the major position.
With the support she’s been given and her experience, alumni, staff, and friends are excited to see Reichart take over.
“She has poured her knowledge, time, and heart into helping me succeed,” Reichart said. “Not because she had to, but because that’s just who she is. Her belief in me, even on days when I’ve doubted myself, has meant more than words can express. She has set an example I will strive to follow every day.”
Without a doubt, Wilcox left her mark and guided many following her footsteps into a successful encounter with SkillsUSA. She will be missed and never forgotten.
“Janie Wilcox has left fingerprints on every corner of SkillsUSA Wyoming, but more importantly, she’s left footprints on our hearts,” Reichart said. “Her legacy is one of love, service, and excellence. I am beyond honored to walk the path she has paved, and I will do everything I can to live up to the standard she has set—not just in work, but in heart.”