College of Western Idaho (CWI) hosted high school and college students for a Regional SkillsUSA diesel competition, giving participants the opportunity to test technical skills, connect with industry professionals, and explore career pathways in the skilled trades.
Dozens of students from across the Treasure Valley and Magic Valley competed in hands on stations that reflected real world diesel and heavy equipment work on Thursday, Jan 22. Events included precision measuring, engines, transmissions, hydraulics, electrical diagnostics, parts identification, oxy acetylene cutting, and mock job interviews. Ten judges from industry evaluated student performance throughout the competition.
“SkillsUSA encourages people in high school and post-secondary education to get plugged into the skilled trades,” CWI Dual Credit student, Joseph Elzinga said. “This program is great. The instructors care, and they want to make sure you leave here with a job you enjoy.”
Elzinga began in automotive classes during high school before discovering a passion for agricultural and heavy equipment. He shared this competition reinforced his decision to pursue the Heavy Equipment Technician program at CWI.
First year students also saw the event as a chance to grow and gain exposure. Capitol High School student, Elias Hargrett, said the event allowed him to explore new skills while building confidence.
“It feels like an opportunity to show that I am willing to learn and take on challenges,” Hargrett said. “Even if you are new, you are always going to learn something.”
Industry and education leaders emphasized the importance of collaboration between high schools, colleges, and employers. Boise School District Heavy Duty Diesel Instructor, Ronnie Martinez, shared events like this help build the future workforce.
“This is not a challenge for students. It is an opportunity,” Martinez said. “What CWI is doing here brings industry, high school, and college together to help students grow and find a career they will love.”
Top performers from the regional competition will advance to the state SkillsUSA contest at Modern Machinery, where they will continue competing and connecting with industry partners. The event showcased the growing demand for skilled diesel technicians, and the role CWI and partnerships play in preparing students for high wages and high skill careers.
