PWSC and VHS students shine in SkillsUSA Alaska Competitions!

Prince William Sound College (PWSC) offers an Occupational Endorsement Certificate (OEC) in Marine Services Technology.  This program equips students with the practical skills essential for Alaska’s industries and helps prepare a skilled workforce for high-demand careers that drive the state’s economy and infrastructure.

Anthony Gerasch, marine technology instructor at PWSC, provides his students with hands-on instruction and introduces them to various opportunities within the field. As a college student, Anthony participated in SkillsUSA and found that experience invaluable to his education. Now, as an educator, he is dedicated to providing his students with similar opportunities that will enhance their industry knowledge, give them real-world experience, and help them refine their technical skills.

For the second consecutive year, Anthony Gerasch and Isaac Deaton, the career and technical education (CTE) teacher at Valdez High School (VHS), took their students to the 2025 State Leadership and Skills Conference hosted by SkillsUSA Alaska. This prestigious event featured 26 competitions across various technical fields, including:

- Welding
- Electrical Wiring
- Diesel Mechanics
- Carpentry
- Cabinet Making
- Cosmetology
- Digital Media & Photography
- Marine Service Technology

SkillsUSA is known for its commitment to hands-on learning, mentorship, and career development. The competition showcased students' technical skills, connected them with potential employers, highlighted the importance of CTE programs, and provided valuable scholarship opportunities.

This year, students from PWSC and VHS delivered exceptional performances, achieving top placements in marine service technology and power equipment technology.

Marine Service Technology
- 1st Place: Sarah Hanson (PWSC)
- 2nd Place: Gabe Caruthers (VHS)
- 3rd Place: David Cook (PWSC)

Power Equipment Technology
- 1st Place: David Cook (PWSC)
- 2nd Place: Gabe Caruthers (VHS)

Post-Secondary: Marine Service & Power Equipment Technology
- 1st Place: Rich Zifko (PWSC)

In addition to the student's achievements, Anthony Gerasch received the "Advisor of the Year" award, recognizing his dedication, leadership, and commitment to student success.

These talented students showcased their skills and earned: scholarships, high-quality tools from Snap-on and Milwaukee, merchandise from Trident and Echo, and gift cards from Yamaha.

Most excitingly, all first-place winners have qualified to compete at the Nationals in Atlanta, Georgia, this June! The Nationals is a prestigious event that brings top students from across the country to compete and showcase their skills.

Congratulations to all participants, and best of luck to those advancing to the Nationals!