The higher education landscape is changing, with vocational training offering a shorter and more affordable path for students to launch careers.

LARAMIE, WY /  / June 25, 2026 / For millions of American students, a privately funded trade school education is now a direct path to a rewarding career, according to several new studies. , a leading U.S. automotive, diesel, welding, and collision trade school, provides that pathway through its accelerated, hands-on training programs that prepare students for high-paying jobs.

For decades, high school graduates have been encouraged to attend four-year university programs. However, trade school graduates enter the workforce two to three years earlier than students pursuing four-year degrees, with significantly less debt.

Parents, educators, and industry leaders are increasingly recognizing that trade education offers a faster, more affordable, and more lucrative path to a stable, satisfying career.

“Demand for students with training in the trades is on full display at WyoTech’s quarterly Career Fairs with over 100 industry partners from across the country consistently traveling in to recruit students,” said Kyle Morris, President of WyoTech. “The WyoTech experience is a unique blend of hands-on skill development, direct connection to industry, professionalism, and personal growth.”

The Numbers Tell a New Story

The National Student Clearinghouse reports that enrollment in vocationally focused community colleges  between 2022 and 2023. Recent research also shows that  are considering trade careers, a 12-point increase from the prior year. Among them, women are increasingly represented, with 52% reporting interest in trade careers, almost as much as young men with 57%.

Meanwhile, four-year college costs : In 2025-26, in-state tuition at public universities averaged $11,950 per year, while private nonprofit institutions averaged $45,000 per year, according to the College Board.

Trade programs, by contrast,  and take six to 24 months to complete, compared to the $19,800 average annual cost and $79,000 total cost for a four-year degree.

In addition, students earning bachelor’s degrees and borrowing for college often graduate with  between $35,000 to $39,000, while students completing technical and vocational training programs typically incur substantially less debt, often under $10,000.

Trade Workers in Short Supply

Economic trends predict a strong and growing demand for people in skilled trades.

The Associated Builders and Contractors trade group reported the  in 2027, a 30.7% increase from the 349,000 required this year. Industry data show that roughly five experienced tradespeople retire for every two new workers entering the field. And the gap shows no signs of closing on its own.

Skilled trades are increasingly recognized as automation-resistant careers, meaning the kind of work that artificial intelligence cannot replicate. Electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, welders, and automotive technicians perform complex, hands-on problem-solving that cannot be outsourced or replaced by software.

WyoTech has seen growing student interest, driven by the school’s hands-on training model, which prepares graduates for immediate employment in high-demand technical fields. Many students are entering the workforce within months of completing their program.

A trade school is a deliberate, financially sound decision that can lead to a fulfilling and well-compensated career. For those who like to work with their hands and build tangible things, trade education offers something a traditional degree rarely can: immediate, practical skills, real job security, and a career path with lasting relevance.

For more information, visit .

About WyoTech

WyoTech is America’s Destination Trade School, providing hands-on training for students pursuing careers in the skilled trades. Located in Laramie, Wyoming, WyoTech offers accelerated programs designed to prepare students for careers in automotive, diesel, collision and refinishing, and welding. With an eight-hour, fifteen-minute training day and industry-driven curriculum, students gain more practical experience in less time – allowing them to graduate quickly and enter the workforce. WyoTech is committed to craftsmanship, work ethic, and preparing the next generation of skilled professionals who keep America moving.

Media Contact:

James Schaefer
jschaefer@wyotech.edu

SOURCE: WyoTech

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Hearing Governor Gordon speak so passionately about the importance and future of the trades was both inspiring and affirming. His words reflect a societal shift for trade schools today. WyoTech is meeting the change, answering the growing demand for skilled professionals. WyoTech’s training delivers renewed respect for hands-on careers, and an opportunity for individuals to build meaningful, lasting futures through their craft. When leaders at the state level recognize and support this work, it reinforces how vital these careers are, not just to individual success, but to the strength and resilience of our communities. 

The Annual Steak Fry served as a powerful reminder that trades education is not just about learning a skill, it’s about creating opportunity. It’s about empowering students to take pride in their work, to solve real-world problems, and to contribute to industries that keep our world moving forward. From automotive, diesel, and collision refinishing technology to welding and beyond, these careers represent innovation, dedication, and purpose. 

WyoTech is proud to have hosted and deeply grateful to everyone who attended. The presence at the highest level reflects a shared commitment to elevating trades education and ensuring that future generations have access to these life-changing opportunities. Whether one is an educator, industry partner, policymaker, or supporter, the role in this mission matters.  

At WyoTech, we believe in the lifelong value of the trades. They are the backbone of our economy and the foundation of progress. As we look ahead, we are excited to continue building pathways for students to succeed, grow, and lead in their chosen fields.  

Thank you again to Governor Gordon, WACTE, Wyoming CTE, and all who partnered together for this special evening. Together, we’re not just celebrating the trades; we’re shaping their future and forging new paths forward. 

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Jason’s passion for classic cars began early, inspired by his father, Jay. By the age of eight, his father was teaching him how to weld, and from that point on, anything with wheels was fair game for modification. What began as curiosity quickly became purpose.

At just nine years old, Jason saw a WyoTech commercial and realized that custom cars could be more than a hobby—they could be a career. Excited, he headed to school ready to tell his math teacher that he didn’t need algebra because he was going to be a professional hot rod builder. Instead of dismissing him, she leaned into his ambition, reshaping lessons around custom cars to show him the real‑world value of education. That moment of mentorship stayed with him.

After high school, Jason enrolled at WyoTech to chase that dream. While academics didn’t come easily, his instructors saw his determination and raw potential. Through hands‑on learning and persistence, he began turning passion into professional skill.

After graduation, Jason searched for work in the hot rod industry, but opportunities were scarce. He eventually found a shop willing to hire him—on the condition that he wouldn’t be paid until the project was complete. Six months later, the shop owner disappeared, and Jason was never compensated. Where many would have quit, Jason kept going. He later joined U.S. Customs, gaining experience, discipline, and a lifelong mentor who helped sharpen both his skills and his vision.

Jason later partnered with his father to open a restoration shop, focusing on sandblasting, rust repair, and custom sheet metal fabrication. After six years, personal loss and hardship led to the business closing—a failure that weighed heavily on him.

Starting over wasn’t easy. With a family to support, Jason took a job at a truck upfitting shop, working his way from near minimum wage to running their custom fabrication department within three years. In 2018, he was offered a partnership in a new car‑building venture, but differences in vision made it short‑lived.

In 2020, during the pandemic, Jason and his fiancée Joalda took a leap of faith. Encouraged by her belief that he finally had the right partner, they built something new. In March 2026, they celebrated five years in business at Rebel Road Hot Rod Garage. Together with their growing team, they’ve put over 800 classics back on the road, achieved more than 400 percent growth since 2020, and are moving into a 20,000‑square‑foot facility.

Today, Jason co‑owns and operates Rebel Road Hot Rod Garage, the largest and highest‑producing restoration shop in New Mexico. His journey is proof that failure doesn’t end the story—it forges it.

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Scott’s passion for cars began early. He grew up wrenching and, at just 15 years old, began building his first car—a 1967 Ford Mustang. That hands‑on curiosity and drive to understand how things worked naturally led him to the trades and eventually to WyoTech, where he built the technical foundation that still shapes his approach today.

After graduating, Scott pursued a career rooted in real‑world experience. He became an ASE Master Technician, working in an independent automotive repair shop before moving on to own and operate his own business. Those early years taught him more than technical skill—they built accountability, problem‑solving ability, and a deep respect for craftsmanship and the people who rely on it.

Scott’s career evolved into the commercial truck and upfitting industry, where he expanded his expertise across service bodies, flatbeds, dump trucks, water trucks, cranes, compressors, welders, generators, and fully customized vocational builds. Having lived the work himself, he understands every step of the process—from the shop floor to the finished product to the customer experience.

Today, Scott serves as Director of Operations at Scelzi Enterprises, Inc., playing a key role in the company’s growth and direction across multiple locations and multiple states. In addition, he serves on the Ford Pro Board of Advisors, offering real‑world insight that helps shape the future of commercial vehicles and upfitting. He has also spoken at national events with NTEA, sharing his experience and perspective with the broader work‑truck industry.

In 2019, Scott’s life changed forever with the loss of his son, Maverick. That loss reshaped his priorities, grounding him firmly in what matters most—his faith, his family, and his time. Alongside his wife, Megan, Scott carries that perspective forward as they raise their youngest son, Maddox.

Scott is also the co‑founder of M30, created in Maverick’s honor to provide opportunities for young athletes regardless of background. Inspired by Maverick’s words, “I am blessed, and I will continue to be blessed, so I can bless others,” the organization turns loss into purpose and impact.

Scott believes your name is 51����. He has built his career on grit, integrity, humility, and doing things the right way—values that make his induction into the WyoTech Hall of Fame especially meaningful.

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Shawn’s journey into the trades began long before his time at WyoTech. At just 15 years old, he started working in collision and paint at the shop of his mentor, Joe. That early hands-on experience sparked a lifelong passion for the industry and set him on a clear path forward.

From August 1992 to May 1994, Shawn attended Montana State University College of Technology, where he studied Collision Refinishing. His dedication and talent led to his recruitment into what was then Wyoming Technical Institute, where he graduated in March of 1995.

After graduation, Shawn worked in the paint shop at Laramie GM until August of 1995—when his relationship with WyoTech took on a whole new meaning. That same year, he was hired as an instructor in the Collision Refinishing Program, marking the beginning of a remarkable career in education.

Over the years, Shawn steadily took on greater leadership roles. He became Assistant Coordinator of the Collision Refinishing Program in 2005 and was promoted to Coordinator in 2010. In 2018, he stepped into the role of Campus Educational Coordinator and later advanced to Vice President and Director of Education—positions he continues to hold today. As of August 2026, Shawn will celebrate 31 years of service to WyoTech.

Throughout his career, Shawn has earned numerous industry certifications, including credentials from PPG, Sikkens, ASE, and I‑CAR. Despite an incredibly full schedule, he still finds time to tinker with cars, paint projects, and—somehow—keep up with a feral grandchild. He deeply loves his daughter and son-in-law, treasures friends who have become family, and, by his own account, “tolerates his crazy wife”.

Shawn’s legacy is one of dedication, mentorship, and unwavering commitment to the trades and the students who follow in his footsteps.

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Evan’s foundation in the diesel world was built long before he ever set foot on campus. He grew up on a large farm, where long hours and hard work were part of everyday life. From tractors and combines to tillage, barn, and silo equipment, Evan learned hands‑on maintenance from an early age. At just 11 years old, he completed his first engine overhaul alongside his dad, Larry—an experience that cemented both his skillset and his work ethic.

In high school, shop class dominated his schedule. One standout project was a full restoration of a Farmall M, from engine to paint. While working on that tractor, Evan reached out to a local expert for guidance, and that connection ultimately introduced him to WyoTech. In October of 1989, he enrolled—traveling 1,051 miles from home to begin his formal training.

After graduation, Evan entered the truck industry working for a local International dealer, where he spent nearly two years becoming well‑versed in all truck systems. In late 1991, when Cummins Great Lakes opened a local branch, Evan was hired as a service writer. Despite initial assumptions about his engine experience, he quickly moved into the shop as a technician and within a year became shop foreman, supervising technicians more than twice his age.

Five years later, Evan took on a unique road service role that combined service and sales, successfully building the operation from part‑time work into a full‑time road service department. Under his leadership, the operation grew to three full‑time service trucks, all running extended hours, with Evan managing customer relationships, parts procurement, repairs, and billing.

In 1996, Evan and his wife, Mary, officially founded E.L.M. Repair, starting as a home‑based operation before growing into a multi‑bay facility. After leaving Cummins in 2001, Evan committed fully to the business, expanding it steadily over the years. In 2015, E.L.M. Repair entered a new chapter with the construction of a 33,183‑square‑foot facility near Edgar, Wisconsin, offering comprehensive truck and trailer service, parts, road service, dyno, tire, alignment, and wash services.

Today, Evan is proud to lead a knowledgeable and dedicated team of 30 employees, providing service from 7 a.m. to midnight Monday through Friday, with 24/7 on‑call support. His journey reflects a lifetime commitment to craftsmanship, leadership, and putting the customer first—values forged early and carried forward every day.

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Following those experiences, Krause transitioned into working independently, collaborating closely with his brother’s shop, The Refinery, where they completed bodywork and paint on numerous high-profile vehicles. During this time, he also launched the sanding block brand True Blox and expanded his freelance work, leading to collaborations with some of the most recognized names in the custom automotive world, including Ringbrothers, Goolsby Customs, Street Works Exotics, and Road Scholars.

Krause later stepped away from freelance bodywork to serve as Project Manager at the renowned Porsche restoration company Road Scholars, where he further developed his expertise in managing elite-level automotive restoration projects.

In 2024, he made the decision to return full-time to the bodywork world with a renewed mission to elevate standards across the industry. He authored Elevated, a comprehensive 90-page guide focused on bodywork and paint at the highest level, resumed production of True Blox sanding blocks, returned to freelance work, and began developing an in-shop consulting program designed to help restoration shops improve both quality and efficiency.

Through decades of experience and an unwavering commitment to excellence, Tyler Krause continues to use his knowledge, craftsmanship, and leadership to make a lasting impact on the automotive restoration industry.

Bio information courtesy of Tyler Krause’s LinkedIn profile.

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Paul’s introduction to hot rods began in a small town outside Omaha, Nebraska, when he saved his money to buy a 1971 Camaro with just 18,000 original miles. He eventually sold that car to purchase a computer and pursue a degree in computer engineering. However, it didn’t take long for Paul to realize that the traditional four‑year university path wasn’t his calling. After time spent in San Diego and Hollywood, he found himself searching for work that felt more tangible and meaningful.

That moment came when he saw a WyoTech commercial on television. Paul remembers thinking, “Hey, I can work on hot rods for a living. That would be pretty cool.” In 2002, he arrived in Laramie, ready to get started.

Paul began in an overflow Body and Paint class, with Upholstery as his very first course—a field he had never previously considered. Within ten seconds of opening the textbook, he experienced what he describes as a “lightbulb moment.” Watching videos of legendary upholsterer Sid Chavers in class further fueled his inspiration, and from that point forward, the dream of building hot rods took shape. Paul maximized his time at WyoTech, diving into Hot Rod and Chassis Fabrication and even chopping the top on his ’51 Chevy during the Street Rod class.

His transition into the professional world was defined by perseverance. After graduating, Paul took a job as the sole upholsterer at a high‑end shop in Kansas City, where he was quickly fired due to his lack of experience. Undeterred, he returned to Omaha in search of upholstery work—only to find few opportunities. Eventually, he connected with Tim McCartney at Midstates Auto Upholstery, where Paul worked a night job so he could spend his days learning in the shop, unpaid.

That commitment paid off. After gaining experience in welding and industrial sewing, Paul made the bold decision to open his own business, Stitchin’ Auto Upholstery, in 2007 at just 26 years old—with less than two years of full‑time experience.

Over the next decade, Paul grew from basic repair work into the high‑level custom interiors he had always envisioned. A major turning point came in 2017 with advanced training at Mobile Solutions, which shifted his focus entirely to custom hot rods. In 2019, he rebranded his business as Starline Hot Rod Interiors, allowing him to concentrate exclusively on custom work.

In 2023, Paul’s journey came full circle when his interior work on a 1960 Buick Invicta earned the Stitch of Excellence at the Grand National Roadster Show—an achievement that allowed him to personally meet his early inspiration, Sid Chavers. Today, Paul leads a talented team at Starline, continuing to push the boundaries of quality and design. Proving that curiosity, grit, and refusing to settle for “good enough” can lead to a Hall of Fame career.

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Eric’s fascination with the automotive world began early while growing up in Great Falls, Montana. A natural curiosity about how things worked—especially engines and machines—pulled him toward the trades. While in high school, Eric attended a presentation in his auto shop classroom and soon after toured the WyoTech campus with a friend. From that moment, he knew exactly what he wanted to do.

After graduating, Eric entered the automotive workforce with confidence and determination. From 1988 through 1997, he worked in both dealerships and independent shops in Great Falls, steadily building a reputation as a skilled and dedicated technician. During that time, he earned ASE Master Technician status, marking a significant professional milestone.

In 1995, Eric’s life took an unexpected turn when a serious accident left him unable to continue working as a technician. Faced with a crossroads, he refused to walk away from the industry he loved. Instead, Eric chose to give back in a new way. In the spring of 1997, he returned to WyoTech—this time as an instructor and ASE Master Technician.

Over the next eleven years, Eric taught all four phases of the Automotive Core Program. He advanced into leadership roles, eventually serving as Lead Instructor across every phase and Team Leader for the Automotive instructors. He also developed the curriculum for the WyoTech Summer Seminar, a program that brings high school automotive teachers from across the country to campus to learn about new and emerging technologies, extending Eric’s impact far beyond the classroom.

In 2008, Eric returned to Montana and joined Capital High School in Helena as the Automotive Instructor—a role he continues to serve in today. Teaching between 60 and 80 students each year, Eric built a program that rivals many post‑secondary institutions. He created an advanced Auto 3 course, established industry certifications through Ford ACE and Subaru University, and developed strong partnerships with local dealerships and construction companies to provide real‑world experience.

Eric’s former students have gone on to become corporate troubleshooters, technical trainers, shop owners, and motorsports competitors across the country. His program also gives back to the community through free automotive repairs and restored vehicle donations to families in need.

Eric Croft’s career reflects resilience, humility, and a lifelong commitment to learning and teaching. His induction into the WyoTech Hall of Fame honors not only his professional achievements, but his lasting impact on generations of students.

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Here in Laramie, it may seem like everyone knows everyone, however that doesn’t always seem to be the case. Our growing town is constantly adding new businesses, making new connections, and proving that local organizations can blossom in the great state of Wyoming.

Our 2nd Annual Discover Laramie event offers the perfect opportunity for the community to meet local organizations from across Laramie and connect on a more personal level. This event will be held Saturday, May 9th in the WyoTech Refinishing shop, 1889 Venture Drive, from 10 am to 1 pm.
Hosted by WyoTech, this annual event continues to showcase the amazing organizations that are growing right here in our small town. Discover Laramie provides the best ways to connect, collaborate, and discover new, family-owned, and neighborhood local businesses ranging from piercing shops to banks.
Not only will there be over 40 vendors attending Discover Laramie, live music, food trucks, and a kid’s corner will be in full effect. Join in with some fireside chats, breakout sessions, and get one on one with community members. There will be door prizes and raffles given out every half hour!
Discover Laramie opens the opportunity to the public to speak to groups like the Albany County SAFE Project, the Albany County Community Emergency Response Team, and local organizations like Skye Counseling, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and Interfaith.

Albany County SAFE Project is a nonprofit that helps support survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and more. Our Albany County CERT is a group of pre-identified volunteers, trained to assist in emergency management during incidents and events.

Skye Counseling, located in Laramie, provides compassionate support and guidance to individuals and families in our community. Big Brothers Big Sisters Offers a variety of options for involvement and has been the most effective youth mentoring organization in the United States. Interfaith offers food resources, housing resources, and a means for the community to help neighbors meet basic needs.
If you’re looking to find a business that helps provide financing, stop by the 1st Interstate Bank booth. If you’re looking for an organization that teaches music, check out the Cornerstone Music Studio’s performance. Whether you’re looking for realtors or looking to start your fitness journey, Discover Laramie provides the perfect opportunity for everyone to make connections and find the perfect local organization that’s right for you.

Some of the vendors that will be in attendance are: Central Volunteer Fire Department and Vedauwoo Volunteer Fire Department, Deviant Piercings and Tattoo, Elevate/Laramie Board of Realtors, Express Employment, Laramie Fitness, Laramie Soup Kitchen, LCCC, Premier Bone and Joint, The Collective, Third Pathway Acupuncture, University of Wyoming Maker Space, US-Army, Wild Bison Flea Market & Farmstand, Wyoming Game & Fish, Wyoming Health Fairs, Wyoming Workforce Services, Taking Flyte, Smooth Movers, Safe Ride, AAA, Momstrologer, American Legion, Laramie Health and Rehabilitation, Laramie Boomerang, and more.

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