Midland Park Sophomore Wins First Place in Statewide SkillsUSA Culinary Challenge
Midland Park High School sophomore Kaitlyn DeBlasio showcased her creativity, skill, and composure under pressure by earning first place in a statewide SkillsUSA culinary competition.
Competing against 13 other teams, each made up of three students, Kaitlyn and her teammates were challenged to create a three-course meal and a drink using only MRE (Meals Ready to Eat) packs, the same type of rations used by military personnel in the field. Participants had just two hours to plan, prepare, and present their dishes, using only the self-heating devices and two bottles of water provided in the packs.
Judged by active military members, the competition focused on taste, presentation, teamwork, and creativity under limited resources. A week after the event, Kaitlyn and her team learned they had placed in the top three and were invited to the award ceremony, where they were announced as the first-place winners.
The event, hosted under the national SkillsUSA organization, celebrates career and technical education programs that prepare students for skilled professions through hands-on learning and leadership development.
Kaitlyn’s accomplishment reflects her dedication, creativity, and problem-solving skills, all of which embody the spirit of the Midland Park Panthers. Congratulations to Kaitlyn on this outstanding achievement!