The DECA state conference is known as the State Career Development Conference (SCDC) and is an annual conference in Chattanooga, Tennessee. This year’s conference took place from February 28 through March 2. 

The conference agenda incorporates multiple competitions where active DECA members compete for a chance to go to Anaheim, California, for the International Career Development Conference (ICDC). There are also multiple teamwork and bonding activities. A silent disco is also held where every DECA chapter attending the conference socializes with fellow DECA members from all over Tennessee with a nice meal, unlimited drinks, desserts, and snacks.

Coffee County Central High School’s DECA chapter had 36 total members in attendance at SCDC, and out of those 36 members, six were recognized on stage at the conference because of their outstanding performances during their competitions. Those six include Olley Todd who competed in the Entrepreneurship Team Event and placed 3rd highest test score in the state, Will Rogers who competed in the Principles of Marketing Event placed 2nd highest test score in the state, Kaylyn Brinkleyand Ella Helms competed in a team event called Travel & Tourism Team and placed overall top 10 in the state, Rylee Clark competed in Sports & Entertainment Marketing and placed overall 2nd place in the state, and lastly, Payton Robinson competed in Marketing Communications and placed 7th overall in the state.

Out of the six students who placed, Payton, Ella, Kaylyn, and Rylee will be competing at the ICDC in California from April 27 through April 30. These students will be competing against DECA members from 49 other states and 9 other countries for a first-place, international title for Coffee County’s DECA chapter. We wish them the best of luck!