This article references: Local coverage highlighting how Collin Goshert's training at Lancaster County Career & Technology Center prepared him for national competition success.
Read the Original Town Lively ArticleWhen Collin Goshert first walked across the hall from his regular high school classes to peek into the heavy equipment operation program at Lancaster County Career & Technology Center, he had no idea that curiosity would lead him to national recognition. Now, as our newest team member at B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc., Collin's journey from local student to national gold medalist demonstrates the exceptional quality of career-technical education in our region.
Collin's path to the gold medal at the 2025 SkillsUSA National Heavy Equipment Operation Competition started right here in Lancaster County. The local recognition of his achievement underscores something we've long known at B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc.—that our region produces some of the most skilled and dedicated workers in the construction industry.
At Lancaster County Career & Technology Center, Collin developed foundational skills that would serve him well on the national stage. The program's emphasis on hands-on learning, safety protocols, and real-world application gave him the confidence and competence needed to compete against the best students from across the United States.
The SkillsUSA National Heavy Equipment Operation Competition is no ordinary test. Twenty-four competitors from 20 states faced 22 judged competitions over two days, testing everything from excavator operation and trenching to blueprint reading and safety inspections. For a young man who initially just wanted to "play with big toys," Collin's gold medal performance showcased the depth of knowledge and skill he had acquired through his technical education.
What makes Collin's achievement particularly noteworthy is how seamlessly his local training translated to national-level competition. The core competencies he developed—precision operation, safety consciousness, problem-solving under pressure, and attention to detail—are exactly the qualities that make someone successful in the heavy equipment field, whether in a competition setting or on a job site.
At B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc., we see Collin's success as validation of our commitment to supporting career-technical education programs. When young people like Collin discover their passion and develop their skills through these programs, everyone benefits—the student gains valuable career preparation, local employers gain access to skilled workers, and our industry gains dedicated professionals who are ready to contribute from day one.
"I think that one of the biggest benefits of this competition and this career field is that you learn so much more than you would following a traditional educational pathway," Collin explained after his victory. "I was able to gain so much experience in the field, and I'm thankful I was able to participate."
Now working as an operator assistant with our team, Collin continues to build on the foundation established during his time at Lancaster County Career & Technology Center. He's gaining experience alongside seasoned professionals while contributing to meaningful projects, including environmental restoration work that makes a positive impact on our community.
His willingness to learn, combined with the technical skills and work ethic developed through his education and competition experience, exemplifies the kind of dedication that has made B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc. successful for nearly 90 years. As a fourth-generation family business, we understand that investing in young talent isn't just good for business—it's essential for the continuity and growth of our industry.
Collin's journey from curious high school student to national champion to valued team member illustrates what's possible when students, educators, and employers work together. His success at both the state and national levels reflects not just his individual talent and dedication, but also the quality of instruction and support available through career-technical education programs in our region.
As we continue to foster our fifth generation of future leaders, we're proud to have team members like Collin who represent the best of what career-technical education can produce. Their skills, work ethic, and commitment to excellence ensure that B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc. will continue to serve our community with distinction for generations to come.
Interested in joining our team and building a rewarding career in construction and heavy equipment operation? Learn more about opportunities at B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc. by contacting us today.
