Woman Wins Gold in Auto Tech, First in 15 Years

When Marissa Reever stepped up to compete in automotive service technology this year, she didn't just win. She shattered a 15-year record at Fort Hays Tech North Central and became the first female student in school history to claim gold in the field.

Reever and her classmate Laike Imm represented their Hays campus at the annual SkillsUSA Kansas State Leadership and Skills Conference, competing against 28 students from across the state. Reever took first place with a gold medal, while Imm earned bronze and third place.

The victory carries extra meaning for the program. The last student to win gold was Mark MacConnell, who now teaches at the school and helped prepare Reever for competition.

Both students showed remarkable growth from last year's event. In 2024, Reever earned silver, and Imm placed in the top 10. Their determination to improve paid off, with Imm jumping from 10th place to the podium in just one year.

"She worked extremely hard this year, constantly challenging herself to be the best," said Richard Cox, department chair of Automotive Service Technology. The program's instructors, including MacConnell, supported both students through intensive training and preparation.

Why This Inspires

Reever's journey breaks barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her success shows young women considering careers in automotive technology that they belong in the garage just as much as anyone else.

Her gold medal win also qualified her to compete at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Atlanta. There, she'll represent Kansas and her college on the national stage, competing against the best automotive students from across the country.

The program is now raising approximately $5,000 to cover travel, lodging, and competition costs for the national event. Community members and industry partners can support Reever's journey by contacting instructor Richard Cox.

Fort Hays Tech North Central President Eric Burks celebrated both students for exemplifying the talent and determination the school works to develop every day. The automotive program continues preparing graduates for successful careers through hands-on training and real-world skill development.

From silver to gold in one year, Reever proved that dedication and hard work can turn dreams into reality.