They participate in competitions in occupational areas and leadership. Funding can come from student activities fees, grants, sponsorships, or fund-raisers. This can be done in a single classroom or in the entire institution. Students also participate in leadership and skills contests. The fee for membership is based on student enrollment.
Funding can come from student government, activity fees, and student program money.
Instructors may receive a modest stipend. In some regions, SkillsUSA-VICA's PDP fulfills certain requirements for accreditation. Some companies work with instructors to incorporate SkillsUSA-VICA activities and programs into the instruction in order to teach leadership and customer service skills. The school often receives grant and scholarship money when participating in these programs. Students own and direct their own organization.