UBTech Celebrates Record-Breaking Results from the National SkillsUSA Competition

Students at Uintah Basin Technical College (UBTech) once again showcased their excellence at the National SkillsUSA competition. The National SkillsUSA Competition, renowned for its focus on hands-on skills demonstrations, attracted participants from across the country, putting their expertise to the test in various vocational and technical fields. Thanks to Iowa Tanklines who covered the costs of student travel, the College sent 13 state gold medalists who proudly represented the state of Utah in various skills categories. By demonstrating their hands-on skills, they extended the college’s impressive winning streak.

This year, UBTech continued its remarkable record of producing national medalists at SkillsUSA, a feat they have consistently accomplished since 2017. Not only did the highest number of students stand on the podium, but this year also marked the celebration of three consecutive years with a gold medalist national champion.

Setting new records at the national level, UBTech students achieved top-five and top-ten placements in their respective categories. Notably, three more students achieved top-five rankings, while an additional two students secured top-ten positions. Out of the 13 competitors from UBTech, an impressive 9 students secured top-ten positions, solidifying their place among the nation’s elite.

Ayden Stratz emerged as a national champion, winning the prestigious gold medal in Motorcycle Service Technology. Reflecting on his achievement, Ayden said, “Winning SkillsUSA at a national level has been a dream come true. I worked hard, focused on my goals, and it all paid off.” Ayden expressed his gratitude to Tyler McKee, stating, “I owe a big thanks to Tyler McKee for his guidance and support.” Ayden’s passion for motorcycles, coupled with the support of his boss, Shane Slaugh, at Mountain High Powersports, friends, and family, has been instrumental in his success.

Ethan Bowden secured a well-deserved bronze medal in Carpentry. Describing his experience, Ethan shared, “It was an exhilarating experience. I worked incredibly hard to reach that point, and winning a medal meant so much to me.” Ethan expressed deep appreciation for his UBTech family, including his instructor, Eric Christensen, who helped him become better and taught him essential skills, and Angela Hanberg, his advisor, who supported his SkillsUSA journey and honed his abilities.

Gage Jessen achieved a notable bronze medal also, in Information Service Technology. Reflecting on his surprise victory, Gage remarked, “Taking 3rd place was an exciting surprise. I didn’t expect to be on the podium.” Gage recognized the pivotal role of Heber, who convinced him to join SkillsUSA and taught him the necessary skills to succeed. He expressed gratitude to his friends for their support and acknowledged his fellow competitors. Gage plans to continue working at Spectra, as there is nowhere else he would rather be for a job.

Shane Riley in Power Equipment Technology secured an impressive fourth-place finish for the second consecutive year. Brenden VanDyke showcased his skills in Motorcycle Technology and achieved a commendable fourth place among post-secondary competitors. Ronald Salguero Suchite demonstrated exceptional ability in Automotive Service Technology, earning a well-deserved fourth-place position.

Emily Caldwell displayed a strong command of Medical Terminology and secured a commendable sixth-place finish. Kolby Winterton showcased his craftsmanship in Cabinetmaking, celebrating an impressive eighth-place position. EmmaLyn Day delivered an outstanding performance in Prepared Speech, earning a well-deserved eighth-place recognition

“We are immensely proud of the remarkable achievements of our students at the National SkillsUSA Competition,” said President Aaron Weight. “These outstanding results are a testament to the quality educational training programs in the Uintah Basin. We congratulate each student on their remarkable success and representation of our institution.”

The success of these accomplished students would not have been possible without the generous support of Iowa Tanklines, who assisted in covering the costs of travel for the SkillsUSA competitors. Their contribution played a vital role in enabling these students to showcase their skills on a national platform.

The collaboration between Todd Bro, owner of Iowa Tank Lines, and UBTech was established in 2019 to support students in their pursuit of SkillsUSA glory. Bro expressed his passion for the partnership, saying, “We want to provide an easier financial path for students who aspire to participate in SkillsUSA. Being involved with our community brings great satisfaction, and I have immense appreciation for what UBTech stands for – offering hands-on education accessible to all.”

Thanks to Iowa Tanklines who covered the costs of student travel, UBTech sent 13 state gold medalists who proudly represented the state of Utah in various skills categories to Atlanta, Georgia for the National SkillsUSA competition.

Thirteen UBTech competitors and three Utah state officers, visit Atlanta, Georgia for the National SkillsUSA competition.

Ayden Stratz returns home as a national champion in Motorcycle Service Technology.

Ayden Stratz is demonstrating his skills in the electrical wiring component for Motorcycle Service Technology.

Gage Jessen is sporting the national bronze medal in Information Service Technology.

Gage Jessen, concentrating on his hands-on challenge of the Information Service Technology competition.

Ethan Bowden, pictured right, celebrates with a national bronze medal in the Carpentry competition.

Ethan Bowden, cutting the lumber needed for his Carpentry project for the National SkillsUSA Competition.

Brenden VanDyke, a post-secondary student, finishes fourth in the national in the Motorcycle Service Technology competition.

Ronald Salguero Suchite demonstrated exceptional ability in Automotive Service Technology, earning a well-deserved fourth-place position.

Shane Riley in Power Equipment Technology secured an impressive fourth-place finish for the second consecutive year.