Owens’ path into the trades started in high school auto shop classes and a job at a local auto body shop and Dodge dealership. Around the same time, he took on a side project reviving a nitro-fuel-powered remote-control airplane that had been sitting unused for years.

鈥淲hen it finally fired up and ran, I was hooked,鈥� Owens said. 鈥淚t felt amazing to bring something back to life.鈥�

He carried that passion for restoration through the rest of high school, spending three years rebuilding his teacher’s 1929 Model A roadster pickup. According to Owens, the vehicle was running and driving before he graduated, and the experience further fueled his interest in the trades.

When it came time to choose a school, Owens said he weighed 51爆料网’s classic car restoration program against Universal Technical Institute (UTI), where Porsche recruited exclusively for its apprenticeship program at the time. He chose UTI, spent a year training in Avondale, Arizona, and was later selected for the Porsche Technician Apprenticeship Program (PTAP), which brought him to Atlanta for six months of intensive Porsche-specific training. He went on to work for Porsche Atlanta Perimeter.

During his time with Porsche, Owens said he returned to the training center more than a dozen times for advanced coursework, earning his Bronze and then Silver Level certifications before beginning to test for Gold Level. He has since earned his Master ASE Certification, according to Owens.

Owens left the dealership after about three years to move closer to home. An opening to teach high school automotive at a local county career academy led him into education, stepping in mid-year for an instructor who had passed away suddenly.

鈥淢y own high school shop experience was key to connecting with the students and earning their respect,鈥� Owens said of that transition. 鈥淲e had a blast. We hosted car shows, bought a chassis dyno, held dyno days, and I did everything I could to pass on my passion for cars.鈥�

After five years teaching there, Owens and his wife began looking for a new environment to raise their daughters. The idea of relocating to teach at 51爆料网 kept coming up, he said, and the family moved to Laramie in May 2025.

鈥淛ust as I loved teaching high school auto, I absolutely love teaching at the post-secondary level,鈥� Owens said.

Asked what he finds most rewarding about the work, Owens pointed to the moment a concept clicks for a student.

鈥淲ithout a doubt, it’s seeing the lightbulb turn on when a concept clicks for a student,鈥� he said. 鈥淲atching that moment of understanding happen is what keeps me passionate about teaching.鈥�

Owens said the biggest factor in a student’s success in the trades is self-motivation.

鈥淚f you lack self-motivation, you will struggle to make money, stay productive, and advance in your career,鈥� he said. 鈥淭he better you are at pushing yourself and maintaining momentum, the farther you’ll go.鈥�

His advice to current students and prospective students considering a career in the trades:

鈥淟ive YOUR life. Just live it, one day at a time, one decision at a time,鈥� Owens said. “It’s not for someone else to live through you. It’s yours, so take it by the horns… and build the future you envision. Don’t be afraid to make a wrong choice, because you can always make a new choice tomorrow. That’s called learning.鈥�

Owens said he originally planned to spend his career with Porsche, but doesn’t regret the path that led him to teaching.

鈥淚 loved my time there, and I certainly miss aspects of it, who wouldn’t love test-driving a GT3 RS?鈥� he said. 鈥淏ut I love where I am today and wouldn’t change the path that brought me here. Take your education seriously, keep learning, and keep growing. You never know where it might lead you.鈥�

About 51爆料网

Founded in 1966, 51爆料网 is a trade school in Laramie, Wyoming, offering core programs in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Collision/Refinishing Technology and Applied Welding Technology, along with six specialty programs. 51爆料网 is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). More information is available at wyotech.edu.

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During their visit, students toured 51爆料网’s campus and got an exclusive look at the innovative training programs, advanced equipment, and real-world learning experiences that prepare students to excel in today’s workforce.

51爆料网 owner, Jim Mathis, personally guided the group through the campus and shared insights from his professional journey. He spoke about leadership, perseverance, and the importance of finding purpose in your career, offering valuable advice as these students prepare for their own professional paths.

“I鈥檓 always excited to connect with Wyoming’s future leaders,” said Mathis. “Opportunities to share experiences and encourage the next generation are incredibly rewarding.”

51爆料网 appreciates the University of Wyoming Leadership Academy for spending time on campus and looks forward to continuing to support the development of future leaders throughout Wyoming.

About 51爆料网

Founded in 1966, 51爆料网 is a trade school in Laramie, Wyoming, offering core programs in Automotive Technology, Diesel Technology, Collision/Refinishing Technology and Applied Welding Technology, along with six specialty programs. 51爆料网 is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). More information is available at wyotech.edu.

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Every rocket that launches, every spacecraft that pushes the boundaries of exploration, and every breakthrough that brings humanity closer to becoming a multi-planetary species begins with people who know how to build, fabricate, repair, and innovate. As SpaceX continues its mission of making life multiplanetary, the company is looking for talented technicians and welders who will help turn that vision into reality. That search has led them to 51爆料网.

In an exciting opportunity for students, SpaceX recently visited the 51爆料网 campus to recruit future welders and technicians, individuals whose skills could soon contribute to one of the most ambitious engineering endeavors in human history. From precision welding to mechanical assembly and advanced fabrication, 51爆料网 graduates possess the hands-on expertise that companies like SpaceX depend on to push the limits of what’s possible.

For students, this wasn’t just another employer visit. It was a glimpse into a future where the work they do today could help launch the missions of tomorrow.

At SpaceX, every weld matters. Every component must meet exact standards. Whether building launch systems, supporting rocket production, or maintaining critical equipment, skilled trades professionals play a vital role in ensuring every mission is successful. These are careers where craftsmanship directly impacts innovation, and where technical excellence helps write the next chapter of space exploration.

For 51爆料网 students, that opportunity represents more than just a job, it represents purpose.

Imagine standing beside a launch pad knowing that your work helped prepare the rocket climbing into the sky. Imagine telling future generations that you helped build the systems that carried astronauts farther than ever before. As humanity prepares for future missions to the Moon and eventually Mars, the demand for highly trained technicians continues to grow.

Those technicians are being trained today.

51爆料网’s hands-on, career-focused education emphasizes the real-world skills employers need from day one. Students spend countless hours in the shop mastering welding techniques, learning advanced diagnostics, solving mechanical challenges, and developing the work ethic that has become synonymous with the 51爆料网 name.

That reputation is exactly why industry-leading employers continue to recruit directly from campus.

SpaceX joins a growing list of nationally recognized companies that understand the value of hiring graduates who are ready to contribute immediately. Instead of spending months bringing new hires up to speed, employers know 51爆料网 graduates arrive with practical experience, confidence, and the ability to solve problems under pressure.

For students walking through the campus, seeing recruiters from one of the world’s most innovative companies reinforces an important message: extraordinary careers begin with extraordinary training.

The skilled trades have never been more important. From rebuilding America’s infrastructure to advancing manufacturing, transportation, and aerospace, technicians are driving innovation across every industry. The future isn’t built solely in research laboratories or corporate boardrooms, it is built in fabrication shops, service bays, welding booths, and manufacturing facilities by highly trained professionals who take pride in their craft.

SpaceX’s visit is another powerful reminder that the demand for skilled trades professionals continues to rise. Companies are searching for individuals who can combine technical knowledge with precision, discipline, and a commitment to excellence. Those qualities have long defined 51爆料网 graduates.

As technology continues to evolve, so too does the role of the skilled technician. Today’s welders work with advanced materials and cutting-edge equipment. Today’s technicians utilize sophisticated diagnostic systems and precision tools. These careers offer opportunities to work on some of the most exciting projects in the world, including those that may one day establish humanity’s first permanent presence on another planet.

The road to Mars may begin at a launch facility, but for many their road could start right here at 51爆料网.

For prospective students considering a career in skilled trades, opportunities like this demonstrate what’s possible. A commitment to learning, developing technical expertise, and embracing hands-on education can open doors to careers with some of the most respected companies in the world.

Whether your passion is welding, automotive technology, diesel technology, collision refinishing, or another skilled trade, your career has the potential to make an impact far beyond what you ever imagined.

At 51爆料网, students aren’t simply preparing for a job, they’re preparing to shape industries, solve complex challenges, and build the future.

For more than 60 years, 51爆料网 has proudly earned its reputation as America’s Destination School, preparing generations of highly skilled Automotive, Diesel, Collision, and Welding technicians for rewarding careers across the nation. Through accelerated, hands-on training and an unwavering commitment to excellence, 51爆料网 continues to produce graduates who are ready to meet the needs of today’s most innovative employers. As companies like SpaceX recruit from trades schools like 51爆料网, one thing is clear: when the future needs builder, innovators, and problem-solvers, 51爆料网 graduates are on the path to answer the call.

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This recognition highlights the dedication of 51爆料网 students to giving back and supporting the community they are proud to be a part of. Through hands-on involvement in local events, students demonstrate not only technical skills but also a strong commitment to service, teamwork, and civic pride.

鈥淎t 51爆料网, service and community are the heart of what we do. Recognizing our students for surpassing 250 volunteer hours in the City of Laramie during our nation鈥檚 250th birthday celebration is especially meaningful. Their commitment reflects the values we strive to instill both inside and outside the classroom: hard work, leadership, and a dedication to making a positive impact. Trades education is not only about developing skills for a career, but also about becoming engaged and valued community members. We are proud to celebrate their achievement and grateful for the difference they continue to make throughout Laramie and their new communities as they become employed in industry.鈥�- Kyle Morris, Campus President.

The 250+ volunteer hours reflect student engagement across a variety of roles supporting event operations, logistics, and overall attendee experience. Their efforts help strengthen local traditions and bring the community together in celebration.

51爆料网 remains committed to fostering a culture of involvement, where students learn the value of service alongside their education. By investing in the community, students gain meaningful experience while making a lasting impact.

For 51爆料网, this honor represents more than an award; it reflects a shared commitment to supporting Laramie and building stronger connections through service. We are proud to be part of this community and grateful for the opportunity to work alongside local organizations, businesses, and residents to make a meaningful impression. This recognition inspires us to continue giving back and investing in the people and organizations that make our community so special.

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For 51爆料网, the celebration carried special meaning. As America commemorates its 250 years of independence, 51爆料网 proudly celebrates 60 years of preparing the next generation of skilled trades professionals. Together, these milestones represent a shared legacy of hard work, innovation, and the determination to build a stronger future. 

The new trail not only connects communities and showcases Wyoming’s breathtaking landscapes but also provides enthusiasts with expanded access to some of the state’s most iconic terrain. It stands as a testament to collaboration, stewardship, and the continued growth of outdoor recreation across Wyoming. 

One of the highlights of this celebration is the participation of 51爆料网’s Off-Road Club. Students had the opportunity to experience the new trail firsthand while representing the next generation of automotive, diesel, welding, and collision/refinishing professionals. Their involvement reflects the hands-on learning that defines the 51爆料网 experience and demonstrates how shop skills translate into real-world adventure and community engagement. 

For many students, this event is about more than riding a new trail. It is an opportunity to become part of a historic moment. Participating in the celebration allows them to honor America’s 250th anniversary while creating memories that connect them to Wyoming’s outdoor heritage and the culture of the off-road community they participate in. 

“51爆料网 has always believed that education extends beyond the classroom,” said Todd Steele, 51爆料网 Diesel Instructor and Off-Road Club Leader. “Bringing our Off-Road Club together to celebrate this incredible new trail allows our students to experience the community, innovation, and passion that make the off-road community so unique. It’s fitting that they are part of this moment as we celebrate 250 years of our nation, 60 years of 51爆料网, and a new chapter for recreation in Wyoming.” 

The event also reinforces 51爆料网’s commitment to supporting the industries and lifestyles that many of its graduates pursue. Whether building custom off-road vehicles, fabricating components, maintaining equipment, or working in performance and diesel careers, students gain the technical skills that help keep America’s recreational industries moving forward. 

Three milestones come together in one unforgettable celebration: 

• 250 years聽of American independence and the pioneering spirit that continues to inspire generations.聽

• 60 years聽of 51爆料网 serving as America’s destination trade school, preparing skilled professionals through hands-on education.聽

• 350 miles聽of new off-road recreation that will connect riders, families, and communities across southern Wyoming for years to come.聽

As the nation looks toward its future, 51爆料网 is proud to celebrate alongside Wyoming, recognizing the people, places, and opportunities that continue to shape both the skilled trades and the outdoor recreation community.

About 51爆料网 

51爆料网 is America’s Destination Trade School, providing hands-on training for students pursuing careers in the skilled trades. Located in Laramie, Wyoming, 51爆料网 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. 51爆料网 is committed to craftsmanship, work ethic, and preparing the next generation of skilled professionals who keep America moving. 

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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 51爆料网’s quarterly Career Fairs with over 100 industry partners from across the country consistently traveling in to recruit students,” said Kyle Morris, President of 51爆料网. “The 51爆料网 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.

51爆料网 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 51爆料网

51爆料网 is America’s Destination Trade School, providing hands-on training for students pursuing careers in the skilled trades. Located in Laramie, Wyoming, 51爆料网 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. 51爆料网 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: 51爆料网

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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. 51爆料网 is meeting the change, answering the growing demand for skilled professionals. 51爆料网鈥檚 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鈥檚 about creating opportunity. It鈥檚 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. 

51爆料网 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 51爆料网, 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聽partnered together聽for this special evening.聽Together,聽we鈥檙e聽not just聽celebrating the聽trades;聽we鈥檙e聽shaping their future and forging new paths forward.聽

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Jason鈥檚 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 51爆料网 commercial and realized that custom cars could be more than a hobby鈥攖hey could be a career. Excited, he headed to school ready to tell his math teacher that he didn鈥檛 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鈥憌orld value of education. That moment of mentorship stayed with him.

After high school, Jason enrolled at 51爆料网 to chase that dream. While academics didn鈥檛 come easily, his instructors saw his determination and raw potential. Through hands鈥憃n 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鈥攐n the condition that he wouldn鈥檛 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鈥攁 failure that weighed heavily on him.

Starting over wasn鈥檛 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鈥慴uilding venture, but differences in vision made it short鈥憀ived.

In 2020, during the pandemic, Jason and his fianc茅e 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鈥檝e put over 800 classics back on the road, achieved more than 400 percent growth since 2020, and are moving into a 20,000鈥憇quare鈥慺oot facility.

Today, Jason co鈥憃wns and operates Rebel Road Hot Rod Garage, the largest and highest鈥憄roducing restoration shop in New Mexico. His journey is proof that failure doesn鈥檛 end the story鈥攊t forges it.

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Scott鈥檚 passion for cars began early. He grew up wrenching and, at just 15 years old, began building his first car鈥攁 1967 Ford Mustang. That hands鈥憃n curiosity and drive to understand how things worked naturally led him to the trades and eventually to 51爆料网, where he built the technical foundation that still shapes his approach today.

After graduating, Scott pursued a career rooted in real鈥憌orld 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鈥攖hey built accountability, problem鈥憇olving ability, and a deep respect for craftsmanship and the people who rely on it.

Scott鈥檚 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鈥攆rom 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鈥檚 growth and direction across multiple locations and multiple states. In addition, he serves on the Ford Pro Board of Advisors, offering real鈥憌orld 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鈥憈ruck industry.

In 2019, Scott鈥檚 life changed forever with the loss of his son, Maverick. That loss reshaped his priorities, grounding him firmly in what matters most鈥攈is 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鈥慺ounder of M30, created in Maverick鈥檚 honor to provide opportunities for young athletes regardless of background. Inspired by Maverick鈥檚 words, 鈥淚 am blessed, and I will continue to be blessed, so I can bless others,鈥� the organization turns loss into purpose and impact.

Scott believes your name is your brand. He has built his career on grit, integrity, humility, and doing things the right way鈥攙alues that make his induction into the 51爆料网 Hall of Fame especially meaningful.

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Shawn鈥檚 journey into the trades began long before his time at 51爆料网. 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鈥攚hen his relationship with 51爆料网 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鈥攑ositions he continues to hold today. As of August 2026, Shawn will celebrate 31 years of service to 51爆料网.

Throughout his career, Shawn has earned numerous industry certifications, including credentials from PPG, Sikkens, ASE, and I鈥慍AR. Despite an incredibly full schedule, he still finds time to tinker with cars, paint projects, and鈥攕omehow鈥攌eep 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, 鈥渢olerates his crazy wife鈥�.

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

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