The Vantage Career Center Construction Equipment Technology program continues to demonstrate its industry-aligned training and workforce impact, as senior Jeffrey Neumeier (St. John’s) secured first place in the Heavy Equipment Operations competition at the Ohio State SkillsUSA Competition located in Miamisburg, Ohio. With this victory, Vantage marks an incredible milestone—five consecutive years of taking the top winning spot at the state level.
This year’s state competition was particularly competitive, following the expansion of the SkillsUSA Heavy Equipment Operations event to include a regional competition for the first time. Vantage students showcased their expertise early on, as Neumeier, along with fellow seniors Wyatt German (Ottoville) and Caleb Merritt (Paulding), swept the top three spots at the regional competition, earning 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, respectively. Their success at regionals qualified them for the state event, where they once again displayed the technical knowledge and hands-on skills needed to excel in the heavy equipment industry.
Neumeier’s first-place state finish now earns him a trip to the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference held in Atlanta, Georgia, in June, where he will represent Vantage and Ohio in the Heavy Equipment Operations competition against the best in the nation.
“This competition highlights the strength of our program and the commitment of our students,” said Vantage Construction Equipment Technology Instructor Chris Miles. “Industry leaders are looking for skilled, work-ready graduates, and these students are proving they are prepared to step into high-demand careers.”
Established in 2016, Vantage Career Center’s Construction Equipment Technology program has rapidly grown into a leading training ground for skilled professionals in the heavy equipment industry and continues to shape the region’s workforce by equipping students with essential industry certifications, hands-on experience, and direct pathways to employment with leading construction, excavation, and equipment service companies. The program’s strong partnership with local industry leaders ensures that students graduate with the expertise necessary to make an immediate impact in the field.
As Vantage celebrates yet another year of SkillsUSA success, all eyes are now on Jeffrey Neumeier as he prepares for the national competition in Atlanta, Georgia. Previous State SkillsUSA Ohio Champions include Gavin Grubb (Crestview, 2024), who placed fourth at nationals, Mason Ladd (Continental, 2023), Braxton Williams (Crestview, 2022), and Dylan Schimmoeller (Lincolnview, 2021). These students’ achievements not only highlight individual excellence but also showcase the strength and consistency of the Vantage Career Center Construction Equipment Technology program.