Skills to lead in the automotive industry—that’s what BYU-Idaho’s automotive programs aim to teach.
Held on campus for over 47 years, high school and college students throughout Southeastern Idaho traveled to BYU-Idaho on March 6, 2025, for the Skills USA Regional automotive competition.
After testing a variety of automotive and job-readiness skills, including diagnostics, part identification, customer service, and interviewing, students can qualify to compete in Skills USA at the state and national levels.
“It's a great opportunity for these students to test their skills, to see what's available in the industry, and possible outcomes for their skills,” said Automotive Technology Faculty Tom Waldron. “It helps prepare students to go out into the industry and see that they won’t know everything, but they’ll know how to ask other people for help and work in a team.”
Alumni who participated in the automotive competition in years past, including Zachary MacConnell and Kaden Niepraschk, have gone on to have successful careers in the field.
BYU-Idaho Alum Zachary MacConnell competed at the state level and now works as a field service engineer at Rivian. He said the competition helped him have more confidence when looking for a job.
“When I went to state it was actually about a week before I graduated,” MacConnell said. “Going into that job search, I had a lot more confidence in knowing what people are looking for in the industry, that this is what I’m good at, and I know my knowledge gaps.”
Participation in extracurricular activities and competitions helps students strengthen their resumes and prepare for life after graduation.
“Participating in these groups shows companies it is something you're passionate about, something that you love to do,” MacConnell suggested to students. “Really get into extracurricular things … that are maybe a little outside your comfort zone.”
Alum Kaden Niepraschk competed three times, once at the national level, and currently works as an IT analyst for Accenture.
To anyone considering to participate in the event, “Just go for it! It will only do you good,” Niepraschk said. “Whenever I was competing, there were people who were like, ‘There are so many people better than me.’ Yeah, so what? Do it for fun! … For all you know, you could get second or third place.”
“If it weren't for the entirety of the education, I wouldn't be able to do this,” Niepraschk said. “The standards of BYUI help you become better disciples of Christ. … As members of the Church and BYU-Idaho graduates, we stand out. There's a difference in the way that we present ourselves to other people, and it makes a big impact in the professional world.”