DECA is a unique organization that develops skills needed to succeed in the marketing field. Skills in areas such as advertising, promotion, selling, finance, and distribution are emphasized.  Management and entrepreneurial concepts involving creative problem solving, effective leadership through goal setting, consensus building, project implementation, and many others are also included to help students succeed in a marketing or business career. DECA helps a student focus on and apply classroom learning to specific marketing careers in fields such as Fashion, Sports and Entertainment, Retailing, Finance, Hospitality, and Travel/Tourism.

 

 DECA differentiates itself specifically in two ways. The first is through its rigorous competitive events. DECA events provide practical applications and problem solving in the areas of marketing, finance, hospitality, consumer and business issues and concerns, as well as emphasis on management and entrepreneurship. Those practical applications are a key factor in producing career focused students. DECA members are empowered through experience and the opportunity to compete on a global scale.

DECA events range from testing combined with role-play situations to interviews and/or presentations of 5-20-page written team projects. They conduct live interaction with judges to present their ideas. Web page development for e-commerce and job interview skills are included up through the state level. They become better informed consumers by developing an understanding of how the business world operates and is affected by economic policies.  The skills that DECA members learn through DECA projects and competitive events will be used throughout their life in all career fields but are especially focused in the marketing field. 

 

The second way is the relationship and networking opportunities provided through the DECA activities and competition. Relationships enhance the student’s career success rate, civic consciousness, and social responsibility. There are project-based events included encouraging community service, awareness, and giving, as well as promoting financial literacy in their communities. The size and focus of this organization allow for the development of meaningful relationships from a local to a global level. That networking provides a positive influence on student lives and their success.