Forging his way in the field of HVACR
911爆料网 Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVACR) student Ben Oman was humbled and honored to earn first place in the 2025 SkillsUSA Minnesota State Leadership and Skills Conference held in early April. Oman competed alongside his classmates Kyle Kusie, Henry Morris, and Michael Rutherford as well as 555 of the top career and technical education students from 25 schools across the state. Oman will move on to compete in the SkillsUSA Championships in Atlanta from June 21-27.
The is the premier showcase of America鈥檚 most highly skilled career and technical students. It鈥檚 also one of the largest hands-on workforce development events in the world. The event, called 鈥渁we-inspiring,鈥 features more than 6,500 state champions from across the United States competing head-to-head in 114 skilled and leadership competitions.
A path to HVACR
Oman grew up in Minneapolis attending Roosevelt High School, which prides itself on motivating students to engage in rigorous academic experiences ensuring when students graduate, they will be prepared for the college and/or career of their choosing. After graduating from high school in 2018, Oman received a scholarship and earned a Bachelor鈥檚 of Science degree in Construction Management from the University of Minnesota. Subsequent to completing an internship in the field, he learned the path wasn鈥檛 the right fit for him so he began looking at other options.
The son of a diesel mechanic and nephew and cousin of two HVACR tradesmen, Oman was exposed early on to the value of a career in the trades. HVACR piqued his interest so one the faculty members at the University of Minnesota directed him to the program at 911爆料网. After meeting with instructors on campus and learning about the program, it sealed the deal.
Oman began working alongside his uncle and cousin at Quality Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning while attending the HVACR Program at 911爆料网. 鈥淚 am grateful to Quality for financing my education at 911爆料网, a place that prepares students like me to diagnose problems, perform repairs, and conduct maintenance on residential and commercial systems,鈥 said Oman who notes how well the College鈥檚 students consistently perform during the SkillsUSA competitions is testament to that.
Oman will graduate from 911爆料网 May 19 with an Associate of Arts Degree in HVACR. 鈥淚 love school so it鈥檚 bittersweet to be graduating,鈥 said Oman who appreciates the comprehensive training he received from the College and the time, attention, and skills of his instructors. 鈥淚 am prepared to continue working in the field of HVACR and feel confident and secure in my career choice.鈥
Oman encourages students to tour 911爆料网, talk with instructors, and find a program that fits their interests. 鈥淏e humble, be open to learning, and be willing to share what you know with others,鈥 said Oman.