RHS/RTI Alum to Compete at SkillsUSA World Competition in China, 2026

James Cahill was the first Rolla High School/Rolla Technical Institute student to ever compete in Auto Mechanics at SkillsUSA Nationals in 2023. During his junior year, James won first place at SkillsUSA State and went on to finish halfway in the field at Nationals. Those who move on from State to the National competition are considered to be in the top ten percent in the nation. During his senior year, James won the SkillsUSA State title again and finished on the podium in second place at the National competition in Atlanta, Georgia. At that time, he was invited to try for a spot in the 2026 World Skills Competition in Shanghai, China.

James was selected for the World spot during his postsecondary studies at State Tech in Linn, Missouri, after competing at the 2025 SkillsUSA Nationals. This year, James has traveled all over the country with his coach and mentor, Rusty Brown, from Toyota Motor Company. He recently competed in Canada, finishing in fourth place, and in Australia, finishing in second place. James and Rusty made a stop at the RTI Automotive shop for a final training run and visit with Program Instructor Kevin Daharsh before they leave for China today, September 16th. 

Mr. Daharsh spoke proudly about James and his amazing accomplishments in the field, while wishing him the best at the World competition. “James was an exceptional student, and it’s been wonderful to watch him grow. I hoped that he would pass me professionally, and he has definitely done that. James will be able to write his own ticket for the rest of his life.”

Please help us cheer on James Cahill as he represents Rolla on the World stage in Shanghai!