This article references: Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) recent coverage of industry-wide support for SkillsUSA's Heavy Equipment Operation Competition and workforce development initiatives.
Read the Full AEM ArticleAt B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc., we've always believed that investing in the next generation isn't just good business—it's essential for the future of our industry. That commitment was recently highlighted when our employee Collin Goshert took home the gold medal at the 2025 SkillsUSA National Heavy Equipment Operation Competition, showcasing both his exceptional skills and the value of career-technical education programs.
For nearly 90 years, B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc. has been more than just a construction company. As a family-owned business now in its fourth generation of leadership, we understand that sustainable growth comes from cultivating talent at every level. Our partnership with SkillsUSA and support of local career and technical education programs reflects our deep-rooted commitment to developing skilled workers who will drive our industry forward.
Goshert's employer, B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc., said that getting involved in SkillsUSA has been beneficial in filling labor gaps, and bringing in the next generation of skilled employees. "On the employer end, we really value programs like SkillsUSA that not only help students dive into skills, but show off their hard work," explains Vice President of Risk and Quality Jason Groff. These partnerships help us address critical labor gaps while bringing fresh talent and perspectives to our team.
Collin's journey exemplifies the transformative power of hands-on technical education. What started as a curiosity about "playing with big toys" during his senior year at Lancaster County Career & Technology Center has evolved into a promising career path. Now working as an operator assistant, Collin gains valuable experience alongside seasoned professionals while operating equipment on projects like wetland restoration.
His success at the national competition—where he competed against 23 other top finalists from 20 states—demonstrates the caliber of training provided by career-tech programs and the dedication of students who choose this rewarding career path.
The SkillsUSA Heavy Equipment Operation Competition represents something larger than individual achievement. As noted in a recent article by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers, manufacturers across the industry are championing SkillsUSA's competition as a valuable resource for developing skilled workers.
Major equipment manufacturers including Volvo, Caterpillar, John Deere, Komatsu, JCB, and Bobcat are working together—not as competitors, but as partners—to support these programs through sponsorships, volunteer expertise, and providing access to millions of dollars worth of equipment for training and competition.
The competition tests students on practical skills they'll use throughout their careers, including:
These comprehensive skills assessments ensure that graduates are job-ready and capable of contributing meaningfully from day one.
At B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc., we're proud to support the career development of young professionals like Collin, and we're equally committed to fostering our fifth generation of future leaders. By partnering with educational institutions and industry organizations like SkillsUSA, we're helping to ensure that the construction and heavy equipment industries will have the skilled workforce needed to tackle tomorrow's challenges.
The success of programs like SkillsUSA depends on collaboration between educators, students, employers, and equipment manufacturers. When we all work together, we create pathways to meaningful careers while building the foundation for continued industry growth.
Learn more about career opportunities at B.R. Kreider & Son, Inc. and our commitment to developing the next generation of skilled professionals by contacting us today.
