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Students Earn National Recognition at SkillsUSA Conference in Atlanta

Man works on motorcycle
Jake Anderson – Motorcycle Service Technology

SLCC students delivered an outstanding performance at the 2026 SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference (NLSC), held June 1–6 in Atlanta, Georgia.

SLCC sent 22 students to compete in 16 national competitions across a wide range of disciplines, including skilled trades, technical programs, creative industries, and professional skills. Students demonstrated high levels of technical expertise, teamwork, and professionalism while competing against top talent from across the country.

Woman works on laptop
Dannielle Barnes – Graphic Communication

The conference provided students with the opportunity to apply their training in real-world scenarios, connect with industry professionals, and represent SLCC on a national stage.

Group poses for photo
SkillsUSA Group with President Peterson

SLCC's presence was further strengthened by the support of institutional advisors and leadership. President Greg Peterson and Provost Jamie Cooper attended parts of the conference, meeting with students and advisors and reinforcing the college's commitment to workforce education and student success.

College students compete in mock crime scene investigation
Haylie Ramirez, Kylee Hermeling and Kennedi Leon – Crime Scene Investigation

SLCC students earned national medals in seven competitions:

  • Crime Scene Investigation: Kylee Hermeling, Kennedi Leon, Haylie Ramirez (Gold)
  • Motorcycle Service Technology: Jake Anderson (Silver)
  • Masonry: Jason Contreras (Silver)
  • Advertising Design: Agnieszka (Aga) Syrzycka (Bronze)
  • Graphic Communication: Dannielle Barnes (Bronze)
  • Graphic Imaging Sublimation: Lauren Harmer (Bronze)
  • Collision Damage Appraisal: Steve Fowler (Bronze)
Man lays brick wall
Jason Contreras – Masonry

SLCC students also competed in the following areas:

  • 3D Animation: Nesvith Perez and Spencer Dalling
  • Aviation Maintenance: Jaxon Tanner
  • Carpentry: Ammon Reynolds-Owen
  • Job Interview: Maclain Resnick
  • Job Skills Demonstration: Isaac Applegarth and Keanalu Mack
  • Medical Terminology: Elizabeth Fucci
  • Photography: Hanna Fetzer
  • TeamWorks: Geron Bedonie, Benjamin Gutzwiller, Charles Johnson, Landon Crandall
Two women smile and pose for photo together.
Aga Syrzycka – Advertising Design and Lauren Harmer - Graphic Imaging Sublimation

About SkillsUSA

SkillsUSA is a national organization that empowers students to become world-class workers, leaders, and responsible citizens. The National Leadership and Skills Conference is the organization's premier event, bringing together thousands of students, educators, and industry partners to celebrate excellence in career and technical education.

Man poses for photo
Steve Fowler – Collision Damage Appraisal

The experience highlights the strength of SLCC's programs in preparing students for high-demand careers and supporting Utah's workforce needs.

Additional photos and student highlights from the conference will be shared across SLCC and Salt Lake Technical College channels, so stay tuned!