Meet Colby, a Barbering grad from Ogden who is upgrading his career by returning to complete the Cosmetology program. Colby is among the 33% of OTECH students who are between the ages of 26 and 60-plus who know that technical education is beneficial no matter where you are in your life or your career. Colby, over to you.
– Thank you for the introduction, Alex. Growing up in Utah and being biracial, it made it super difficult to get good haircuts. People just weren’t as familiar as they are today with different textures of hair. This led me to cutting my own hair and creating a passion for hair cutting and hair styling. I knew I wanted to begin my journey in the hair industry and needed an affordable school that would work with my schedule. Ogden-Weber Technical College met all of my needs. I graduated from the barbering program in 2011 and obtained my license. I’ve been a professional barber since then and a manager at another level barber shop. My passion for the hair industry has always caused me to seek more, learn more, and educate myself, so I joined the award-winning Chrystofer Benson Collective hair team. Being surrounded with talent and creativity and working with artists from all over the world opened up other avenues in the hair industry. With this inspiration, I decided to go back to school at the age of 43. Being an alum made it a no-brainer to look into the OTECH cosmetology program. As a new father, the decision to return to school was difficult financially. Fortunately, there were several assistance options, and I received a scholarship that covers my full tuition. The support I’ve received at OTECH is unmatched. The instructors are well-versed in cosmetology specialties and provide a broad learning experience. From the counselors and the student success center to the alumni association, everyone here has made returning to school great. After the completion of the program, my goal is to open a barbershop and salon in the community that I grew up in, and I have a plan to pass that on to my daughter. I wanna thank OTECH for supporting me and helping me achieve my dreams. Back to you, Alex
– Colby, thank you for taking us on your journey from one tech certificate into a successful career and back for another OTECH program to take that career to the next level. Your story demonstrates how stackable tech college credentials can open new pathways and opportunities to grow. That was awesome. Thanks again.
Let’s meet Karen, an experienced cosmetologist from Roy, Utah, whose love for creativity and art led her to the Welding Program. Though she may not seem like a typical welder, Karen found a community and instructors who helped her combine advanced technical skills with her passion for artistic expression. Karen, tell us all about it.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone, when I moved to Utah, I left behind a 20-year career as a hairstylist. Above all things, I’m an artist. And ever since I was a child, I’ve always been looking for ways to expand my creative skillset. I’d always had an interest in learning how to weld, but being a mom with a full-time career, I didn’t have the time. When we moved here, my husband suggested OTECH. Even though my goals were art-related, I developed an intense respect for all the welding methods. For the first time in two decades, I was reminded what it was like to learn a new technical skill. It was incredible to share community and friendships with a diverse group of students. We all celebrated each other’s victories and faced our challenges head on. The instructors demonstrated their expert knowledge, encouraged growth and shared in our successes. They went beyond instructing, they mentored, they shared their craft with pride and patiently found ways to help each student. When I expressed interest in joining the OTECH SkillsUSA competition team for sculptural welding, the instructors gave me their complete support. They worked with us for months to help finesse our skills and make sure that we were on point. One of the things I love most about OTECH is the sense of community you feel no matter where or who you are. I met staff from across the campus, who echoed the same desire to help that I’d already experienced from my instructors. And I’m not gonna lie, the food at the Campus Grill is delicious. I was so inspired watching the fulfillment the instructors got when a student completed the program that I’m proud to say I am now a cosmetology instructor at OTECH. Being a student here made me wanna change lives, and Ogden-Weber Tech has given me the opportunity to do just that. Back to you, Alex.
– Karen, it is awesome that your OTECH experience inspired you to help others have that same life-changing opportunity. Welding now has more students than any other program on campus, due in large part to invested instructors who support and mentor students every step of the way. Thanks again. Karen.
Let’s hear from Jarom, an Apprentice Electrician from Ogden. OTECH is the largest apprenticeship provider in Utah, offering students the unique opportunity to earn while they learn. Jarom is an exceptional Apprenticeship student who attends OTECH for his educational training hours while earning great wages and getting on the job experience with a local employer. Take it away.
– Hello, Alex, you are too kind. I’m now a sparky or an electrician, but my OTECH story began about seven years ago when I came here for medical billing and coding. Probably, like a lot of you, my educational and career path wasn’t a straight one, but OTECH has been there every step of the way. One of the advantages of OTECH is being able to find out what you love to do through real, affordable, and flexible hands-on training. I knew I wanted a career in something technical and challenging, but just didn’t know quite what. I had headed down paths for elementary education and computer programming. And while they had their merits, they just weren’t what I found that I loved. In the meantime, I had gotten married and had three great kids. I looked for a career option that would be great for my family longterm and decided to do a trade. I had a friend that worked in electrical and have graduated from OTECH, and he inspired me to enroll again. It has been a perfect fit for me. It’s a field that is difficult, rewarding, stretches me, and makes me solve problems I never thought I’d have to solve. The experience I have gained here both hands on and in the classroom has benefited me enormously. Because of the flexible apprenticeship programs at OTECH, I have begun a fulfilling career. I even took and passed my state licensing tests on the first try. I now have a residential journeyman license and over 6,000 hours of experience under my tool belt. With one more year of schooling and experience, I can test for my full journeyman’s license. With some more experience, I can get my master’s license. That means I can serve my community through my own electrical business. Alex, back to you.
– Jarom, it sounds like an Apprenticeship program at OTECH has been an amazing opportunity for you and your family. The ability to earn a substantial wage while furthering your education will set you up for success for decades to come. Thanks again.
Let’s meet Denisse, a Medical Assistant student from Ogden, whose OTECH certificate is the first step in her healthcare career plans. While Denisse learns how to provide care for her future patients, OTECH is giving her resources and support to ensure her own health and wellbeing are taking care of as well. Denisse, over to you.
– Thanks for the introduction, Alex. When we’re kids, we know exactly what we wanna be. I wanted to be a princess. Others wanted to be lawyers, teachers, even the president of the United States. But somehow when we get to high school, we have no idea what we wanna do with our lives. I applied to the Ogden-Weber Technical College, not only to get an education, but to ignite my future and purpose in life. Once here, I learned very quickly how mental health affects student success. As an OTECH student, I have access to free therapy from a licensed therapist and support from my program. These services outside of school would cost a fortune. Resources like the Student Success Center and the Zen Den are like the best friends I didn’t know I needed. I go to the Zen Den. It’s an area where students can relax and de-stress quite often. It’s a great way to take care of my health while studying about health, from meditating, to coloring, to getting a cup of tea, it’s the little things that make a big impact. It’s like passing my tests. I chose medical assisting because of my desire to help others and passion for change. Working one-on-one with instructors, having hands-on experience and volunteering in the community have given me the confidence and skills to build a career, not just a job. The medical assistant program has paved the foundation for me to one day become a neurosurgeon. OTECH has supported me every step of the way. They have helped me with university admissions and revamping my resume for medical externships. There’s still a lot of work to be done, but I know with OTECH, I made the right choice. Back to you, Alex.
– Denisse, it is great to see that OTECH is looking out for your mental health while also supporting you academically. We can all use some time in the Zen Den. Best of luck in your future endeavors, and thank you for giving us a glimpse of your OTECH experience. That was great.
Meet Tony, a lifelong car enthusiast from Chicago, who decided to enroll in the Automotive Program to complete industry certifications and give back to others. 38% of students come to OTECH with previous college credit or degrees and use technical certificates to upskill or make a career change. Tony, tell us more about what brought you here. Take it away.
– Alex, I appreciate that introduction. Hello, everyone. At 10 years old, I was taught to work on cars and to appreciate the high-performance muscle car classics. That’s when I knew I’d be working on cars the rest of my life. When I decided I wanted to know how to diagnose and service any problem with any vehicle, I chose the OTECH automotive program. I knew I’d receive a top-notch education and get all of my automotive service certifications. I could also use my experience to give back to the community and share knowledge with other students while gaining new skills myself. I’ve enjoyed interacting with people from diverse backgrounds and experiences. My expert instructors are always there to support me in my course curriculum and in my hands-on task with actual vehicles. If I ever need help in the shop, my classmates are always there, and I love to do the same for them. One of my favorite memories in the program so far was helping another student get an engine running.
– All right, Eric, go ahead and start it up.
– She was so excited when it fired up that she jumped right off the ground.
– Yes!
– Everyone in the shop knows that feeling. Yes! I got to attend an Autorama Car Show for Student Career Day. I saw custom-built cars, trucks, and motorcycles and was able to network with the shops who created them. The automotive program has had a huge impact on my life and I’m so grateful for the scholarship donors who made it possible for me to attend. My plan after graduation is to pay it forward and teach automotive repair to others. I will continue to bless people with my no cost labor ministry, where I teach people how to surface their vehicles from my home. Back to you, Alex.
– Tony, it seems like the relationships you’ve built with instructors and your fellow students are already having a positive impact on people’s lives, including your own. We’re sure the skills you share with others, both here and in the future will make a significant difference. Thanks again.
Let’s meet James, a brilliant baker from Wilmington, Delaware, who joined the OTECH Business Program to better manage and market his famous sweet potato pies. He found not only the skills to level up his business, but also a network of industry experts who cheer him on every step of the way. James, tell us all about it.
– Thanks, Alex. What’s up, everybody? James here with James Gourmet Pies. When I started my business, I was lost. I knew that we had an amazing product, but the profitability wasn’t really matching the hard work. That’s when I found OTECH. When I was searching for a school, it was important for me to find great accounting classes, hands-on experience, and tips on social media marketing. Those were my weak points, and OTECH helped turn them into my strengths. When I started school, I didn’t have much money. Everything was going back into the business. Literally, I was so dedicated, I would walk two miles to school every morning. One of the great things about OTECH is the smaller classes help instructors get to know students personally and to pay attention to details. One of my instructors noticed I was walking to school and shared the campus program that would help pay for public transportation. The business program has completely changed my life and my small business, allowing me to network and make great connections. The classes include real world scenarios in automated simulations, so you feel like you’re working with the real business. I love one-on-one teaching from expert instructors. I also really love that we have gourmet lunches from culinary students and haircuts and manis and padis from cosmetology students, all at a fraction of which you’d pay downtown. Now that I’m close to graduating, I love sharing my experience with all of my entrepreneurial friends because I understand the importance of mixing real world information with hands-on education. Now, that’s a winning recipe. But that’s all for me, and back to you, Alex.
– Wow, James, what an inspiring story, and I cannot wait to dig into one of your pies. Also, your resilience and dedication, combined with the resources provided by instructors and the college are definitely a recipe for success. We can’t wait to see what you do next. Take care, James. So good, so good.
We can’t wait for you to meet Ivy, a Non-Destructive Inspection student from right here in Ogden. The NDI program is housed at OTECH’s satellite campus located in the heart of Business Depot Ogden. Northern Utah is a major manufacturing, aerospace, and defense hub, and non-destructive inspection is critical to the success of these industries. Ivy, over to you.
– Hey, thanks for the intro, Alex. After graduating high school, I didn’t really know if I wanted to go to college, and I definitely didn’t want that student debt that came with it. So I took a gap year, moved to California, and helped there build a ghost town, and it’s there that I realized, I wanted a career in the trades. After that happened, I was almost instantly drawn to Ogden-Weber Technical College. The biggest selling points for me were how flexible and affordable OTECH is. But the cherry on top is definitely their impeccable manufacturing programs. Being a woman in the trades can be a little daunting at times. I was told once by a company that I was too feminine for this type of work, so I took that rejection and turned it into motivation. Starting out, I had no idea what non-destructive inspection or NDI was. Now I like to think of it as the hidden gem in the world of trades. And OTECH is one of only two schools in Utah to offer it. I’m learning to inspect and evaluate materials, components, and assemblies from a wide range of industries without destroying or compromising their structural integrity. Out of all the amazing things about OTECH, it’s the people who dedicate their lives to helping others grow that are truly the highlight. I’ve had overwhelming help and support from the staff and my instructors. OTECH doesn’t just offer education, it offers community and opportunities to grow in every aspect of life. With all the hands-on learning, I already feel beyond prepared for the future. OTECH connects their graduates with top-notch employers. The best thing about the trades is they’re what literally makes the world go round, so the career opportunities are endless. As for me, I’m meeting myself in the aerospace industry. Back to you, Alex
– Ivy, it sounds like an aerospace company is going to be very lucky to have you, and you’re right about those endless opportunities. Every program OTECH offers is driven by employers, which is why 99% of graduates find a job directly related to their education. Incredible. Cheers, Ivy.
Meet Diego, a Second-generation OTECH student from Puerto Rico, who completed his first college certificate before graduating from high school and is now enrolled in the Business program. With free tuition for high school students and extensive scholarship and financial aid opportunities, it’s no wonder 100% of OTECH students graduate with no student loan debt. Incredible. Tell us more, Diego.
– Thanks, Alex, and hello everyone. I’m very excited to share my experience as a Puerto Rican student here at OTECH. When I was looking at Colleges, Ogden-Weber Tech was a natural choice. You could say it runs in the family. Both of my parents attended here with my dad taking the automotive program and my mom taking the nursing assistant and medical assistant programs. What motivated me even more was that high school students attend OTECH tuition-free. Graduated with my OTECH graphic design certificate before even finishing high school gave me an amazing head start, and I wanted more. Ogden-Weber Tech offered a full ride scholarship for graduating high school seniors, and I was fortunate enough to receive that scholarship. The funding has allowed me to continue my education without worrying about my tuition. I chose the business program, as one day, I would like to have my own graphic design business. And now I’m learning those skills to make that a reality. Growing up, my parents emphasized the importance of speaking Spanish and being bilingual without forgetting my culture, roots, and values, especially because there are more Puerto Ricans living in the diaspora than living on the island. I’m grateful that OTECH celebrates students’ diverse cultures and individuality to make us all well-rounded professionals. The graphic design and business programs have prepared me for future success in more ways I have ever imagined. The OTECH community has welcomed me with open arms and there’s room for more, so come join us. With that being said, Alex.
– Diego, what an amazing story of the difference OTECH has made for two generations of your family. It’s clear that the college community is committed to making sure every student feels like they belong here and have a path to success. Thank you, Diego.
Ralleigh is a Graphic Design student from neighboring Roy, Utah, who sees OTECH as a vehicle to harness his creativity and build a career he is passionate about. Graduates with skills in digital design, software development, and information technology are in high demand, and a tech college certificate is the fastest way to jumpstart your career. Ralleigh, take it away.
– Great to see you, Alex, and I hope you enjoy the view of this awesome mountain range. My experience hasn’t included what many think of as traditional education. Creative expression runs for my veins and no college ever quite fit my creative needs. That is until my wife attended Ogden-Weber Technical College and everything changed. My wife’s experience showed me that OTECH has the educational flexibility to match my goals and fit my busy life as well. I made the leap and landed in the graphic design program. The instructors want you to be prepared for the real job market and are there every step of the way. The guided course experience simulates working with businesses and clients to create brands and designs that fit their vision through your create lens. OTECH graphic design has you mix your artistic vision and creativity with technical skills and training to become a capable and savvy designer that can make anything. I’m being given all the tools I need to unleash my passion for design and bring my creativity to the world. The skills I’ve learned in this program have already impacted my current employment. Professionally, I’m a ring artisan in charge of laser engravings. I apply design every day to ensure that clients get the right engraving for their perfect wedding band. The Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator skills I’ve learned through the graphic design program have been crucial to my success. With the investment in hands-on training OTECH has given me, I’ll be able to thrive in the design field. After this, I plan to follow my passion in film, television, and art. The principles I’m learning in this program will be invaluable to achieving that future. That’s my story. Back to you, Alex
– Ralleigh, we have no doubt your future is bright with your passion for design and the hands-on skills you are mastering. Your experience, immediately applying what you learn in the class to your ring design work shows how technical education and marketable skills go hand in hand. Ralleigh, thanks for sharing your story.
Okay, everyone, it’s time to introduce Kenzey, a Barbering graduate from North Ogden. Cosmetology and barbering are two of the most popular programs on campus and seats fill quickly. This is no surprise when you hear how OTECH’s expert instructors and experience-driven learning model helped Kenzey make an impression on a national stage. And Kenzey, we also heard that the president only gets his haircut from you. Please take it away.
– Thanks, Alex. Hey, everyone. When senior year rolled around, I had no idea what I wanted to do, so I went to the school counselor who told me about Ogden-Weber Technical College. The barbering program really caught my attention. I had never cut hair in my life, but the barbering instructors were amazing, and it was all hands-on training. They taught me everything from the science behind what barbers do to the best methods for cutting hair. Every day, I learned something new, and made sure I mastered each skill, which really helped when I took those skills to a national competition. The SkillsUSA Championships showcases over 6,000 of America’s most highly skilled career and technical education students, who compete head to head in 115 events. I was up against the top barbering students from every state. Thanks to everything my instructors taught me, I came home with a gold medal.
– [Announcer] Kenzey Hadley from Utah!
– This championship was an amazing experience. It helped my confidence and honestly changed my life. The barbering program got me out of my bubble and brought it a skill and haircutting that I would’ve never known I had. Not only did I learn a world class skill, but I also made a lot of friends. My experience at OTECH definitely helped me in my career. In fact, I’m now going back for the cosmetology program. The time Ogden-Weber Technical College and the instructors invested in me made me the barber I am today. When I first started college, I couldn’t have imagined that I would become a national champ and learn as much as I did. From never cutting hair to seeing where I am now, my experience really shows how Ogden-Weber Technical College helps you gain the skills to succeed in whatever career you choose. Back to you, Alex.
– President Taggart, you are looking fantastic with that new cut. And Kenzey, your experience shows that an OTECH certificate gives graduates unbeatable skills to excel in their careers. Congratulations on your win and thanks again.