The purpose of DECA is to develop occupational competencies in the field of marketing and management, and to promote understanding and appreciation of our free enterprise system. 

DECA, organized at the national level in 1947, is a tool used by a teacher coordinator to motivate, inspire, teach and recognize young people in unique ways. It complements the marketing education classroom instruction and work experiences. DECA's activities focus on competition at the local, state and national levels in specific occupational skills, leadership development and management training. DECA also offers many opportunities for young people to develop leadership qualities in a student-directed organization.

DECA is co-curricular and is infused into the curriculum of marketing, management and entrepreneurship classes, thus giving the teachers of these programs access to a multitude of new resources and activities to enhance the classroom experience. DECA's programs directly address the career clusters as identified in a study by the U.S. Department of Education. These clusters are Business, Management and Administration, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Hospitality and Tourism, Marketing, Sales and Service. Members can compete in Written Events, Individual Role Plays and Team Decision Events. Learn more about DECA membership.