MTECH’S 2026 ‘SCHOOL’ STUDENTS OF THE YEAR
Mountainland Technical College is proud to recognize six outstanding students as its 2026 School Students of the Year. They represent programs across apprenticeships, healthcare, services, technology, and trades.
Celso Pudilo Sosa, HVACR Technician – School of Apprenticeships
Daniel Zarzur, Electrical Apprenticeship – School of Apprenticeships
Shelby Ore, Medical Assisting – School of Healthcare
Haley Osborn, Culinary Arts – School of Services
Royce Keck, Digital Marketing and Analytics – School of Technology
Holly Chun, Automotive Technology – Clyde School of Trades
A RETURN WITH PURPOSE
For Kimberly Tervort, MTECH has been part of her journey for nearly a decade. After completing the Medical Assistant program nine years ago, she spent several years working in the field, where she discovered a new interest while collaborating with radiologic technologists on the job.
Driven by her love of photography and inspired by the impact of radiology, Kimberly made the decision to return to MTECH to pursue the Radiography Technology program.
Throughout her training at MTECH, Kimberly embraced the fast-paced, ever-changing nature of the healthcare industry. Each patient and clinical experience strengthened her ability to adapt, think critically, and provide quality care.
Kimberly’s motivation to succeed in both her program and career is deeply personal. As a mother of two, she is committed to showing her children that hard work and determination can open doors. “Today’s students can be tomorrow’s leaders,” Kimberly shares. It’s a mindset she lives out every day.
Celso Pudilo Sosa
HVACR Technician | School of Apprenticeships
Originally from Guadalajara City, Mexico, Celso decided to pursue MTECH after watching his daughter grow through her own experiences at the college.
At nearly 62 years old, and thinking higher education might not be for him, Celso enrolled in the HVACR Technician program and rediscovered his interest in hands-on work and problem-solving. He mentions that he enjoys the lab environment and learning practical skills to apply in the field.
Celso is currently working toward earning his license while balancing school, work, and family life. Outside of the classroom, he enjoys spending time with his family and two new grandchildren.
Daniel Zarzur
Electrical Apprenticeship | School of Apprenticeships
Daniel was raised in Argentina and originally studied to become an electrician before moving to Utah to begin a new chapter. While pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business management, he realized he missed working with his hands and enrolled in MTECH’s Electrical Apprenticeship program.
Throughout the program, Daniel has learned the importance of electrical code and safety within the industry. He values the hands-on training and real-world experience he has gained through MTECH.
Outside of class, Daniel enjoys spending time with his wife, playing video games, and watching shows.
Shelby Ore
Medical Assisting | School of Healthcare
Shelby, a medical assisting student, returned to healthcare after working as a CNA for 10 years. As a mother, she needed a program that fit her schedule, making MTECH the perfect opportunity to attend classes at night while focusing on her family during the day.
Throughout the program, she built meaningful friendships and strong relationships with her instructors. She encourages future students considering MTECH to ‘just go for it.’
Shelby has since been accepted into a nursing program and plans to earn her BSN.
Haley Osborn
Culinary Arts | School of Services
Haley joined the Culinary Arts program to build confidence in the kitchen and expand her knowledge of baking and cooking. Known for her ambition and positive attitude, Haley has learned the value of persistence throughout her training.
‘You may not get a recipe right the first time,’ Haley shared, ‘but it’s important to keep trying.’
Looking ahead, Haley hopes to study abroad and learn more about how food connects to people around the world. Her long-term goal is to become a private chef. Outside of school, she enjoys reading, writing, knitting, and playing tennis.
Royce Keck
Digital Marketing and Analytics | School of Technology
Royce discovered MTECH through a friend while simultaneously operating a small e-commerce business from his home. Managing the company’s marketing sparked his interest in the Digital Marketing and Analytics program.
Royce values creativity and intentionality in his work and encourages others to continue learning from those around him.
After MTECH, Royce plans to attend Utah Valley University to study exercise science, with the goal of one day opening a private clinic and using his program knowledge to market it. Outside of class, he enjoys reading and writing.
Holly Chun
Automotive Technology | Clyde School of Trades
Holly’s path to Automotive Technology began unexpectedly after missing the application deadline for Surgical Technology. While exploring other opportunities at MTECH, she discovered the Automotive Technology program and found a passion for the industry.
With previous experience working at a tire shop, Holly developed strong technical skills and learned the importance of precision and attention to detail.
Looking ahead, Holly hopes to create innovations that improve efficiency in the automotive industry and educate others about the field. Outside of school, she enjoys spending time with her two children, writing, and painting.
About Mountainland Technical College
Mountainland Technical College is home to award-winning technical education with campuses throughout Utah’s majestic Wasatch Range. As Utah’s largest technical college, serving more than 6,000 students annually across 38 industry-focused programs, MTECH’s mission is ‘to enhance the employability of individuals through market-driven career and technical education’.
Published on: May 20, 2026 at 11:20pm MT