Credit to Jordan Ousley

After having one of their best performances at districts, 13 DECA members made their way through the state conference and are now moving along to the International Career Development Conference that is taking place April 26 through May.

“I want to have a career as a sports agent and a lot of that involves marketing,” DECA Vice President and senior Jack Engelhard said. “So, I just find it really fun. It’s something I want to pursue later on and I just really enjoy doing it. Plus, I’m competitive.”

The International Career Development Conference is taking place in Anaheim, California. This is the biggest event that happens throughout the year for members of DECA. The International Conference will feature competitors from not just the United States, but also competitors from across the globe.

“Our numbers went up this year, we had over a hundred people,” DECA sponsor Mike Freedline said. “Back in last year, I think we had 76. Plus we had more team events.”

Last year, only two members of North’s DECA program were able to make it to the International Career Development Conference. This was because it took place on the same day as Prom last year. This year has been one of the largest years for DECA.

“I think the more members we have, the better,” Engelhard said. “It really is a super fun and helpful thing to move forward in life. This year is one of our largest chapters we’ve had.”

DECA as a club has rapidly expanded over the past few years and is continuing to grow. With this added growth comes more success in the different levels of competition. DECA requires members to compete in a variety of different tests and role plays based on mastering marketing concepts in order to succeed.

“It comes down to how much they study for the state test and practice role plays,” Freedline said. “A lot of them can definitely go on [to the International Conference.]”