In a powerful demonstration of hands-on technical excellence, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology students dominated the recent SkillsUSA District 4 competitions, with 22 students qualifying for the Pennsylvania state championships scheduled for April 2025.
The strong showing across multiple technical disciplines highlights the College’s commitment to industry-experienced instruction and real-world skill development. Students earned first-place honors in 13 different competition categories, showcasing the depth and quality of technical education at Thaddeus Stevens College.
“These results reflect our dedication to hands-on, practical learning that prepares students for high-demand careers,” said President Pedro A. Rivera II, Ed.D. “Our students’ success in SkillsUSA competitions demonstrates the real-world readiness that defines a Thaddeus Stevens College education.”
First-place winners included students from diverse programs across campus:
- Grant Decker in Architectural Technology
- Zachary Cooter in Cabinetmaking & Wood Technology
- Zane Kitchen in CNC 3-Axis Milling, part of the Computer Integrated Machining program
- Colin Wenger in Collision Repair Technology
- Justin Marvel in Diesel Technology
- Anthony Battaglia in Graphic Communications & Print Technology
- Clayton Carlin in HVAC-R
- Autumn Slaybaugh in Industrial Motor Control, part of the Electro-Mechanical Technology program
- Gabrielle Barbosa in Job Interview
- Samuel Berryman in Masonry Construction Technology
- Eric Jackson and Dylan Navarrete in Mechatronics, part of the Electro-Mechanical Technology program
- Abigail Butrica in Pin Design, part of the Graphic Communications & Printing Technology program
- Hayden Telford in Precision Machining, part of the College’s Computer Integrated Machining program
- Brooklyn Thomas in Related Technical Math
- Elizabeth Miles Laughner in T-Shirt Design
- Joshua Aguilar in Welding, part of the College’s Metals Fabrication & Welding Technology program
Strong second-place performances were also recorded in Automotive Refinishing Technology by Jose Caballero-Vallejo, Welding by Brayden Fantazzi, and Welding Fabrication by Spencer Risser, Christofer Riefsnyder, and William Wingard, demonstrating the college’s comprehensive strength across technical disciplines.
SkillsUSA competitions allow students to showcase their technical expertise while competing against peers from other institutions. These contests are designed and judged by industry professionals, ensuring that success reflects the real-world skills employers demand.
The 22 qualifying students will advance to the Pennsylvania State Championships, where they’ll have the opportunity to earn spots in the National Leadership and Skills Conference, SkillsUSA’s showcase event.
This achievement reflects Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology’s mission of transforming lives through hands-on technical education while maintaining a deep commitment to student success. The College’s consistent strong performance in SkillsUSA competitions demonstrates why our graduates continue to be in high demand across technical industries. Many thanks to the numerous faculty who work with students to prepare for and excel in the competition!