On November 29, 2017, nine Southwest Tech students were recognized at an award ceremony for their outstanding achievements. As part of the ceremony, a short video of each student was shown that highlighted their stories and achievements. All students were selected by their instructors from the various departments at Southwest Tech. The students awarded were:
- Ashley Julander – Automotive
- Alison Tripp – Business
- Jacob Allen – Computer Science
- Daniel Ortega – Culinary Arts
- Clifford Capone – Digital Media
- Natalie Fox – Health Professions
- Cody Cochrane – Industrial Maintenance & Automation
- Tyler Hunt – Professional Truck Driving
- Jeff Parker – Welding
“The experience of each student is inspiring and encouraging,” said Brennan Wood, President of Southwest Tech. “I recommend everyone to go to our website and watch these videos. They really demonstrate what technical education is all about.” Each student video can be found on Southwest Tech’s website at: www.stech.edu.
At the conclusion of the ceremony, President Wood announced Daniel Ortega as the overall Southwest Tech Student of the Year. Ortega is a current student in the Culinary Arts program while also working for the Calvario’s Family Restaurant in Parowan, Utah. Ortega and the Calvarios are also in the process of opening a new bakery. In regards to Oretga’s experience at Southwest Tech, he stated, “From the very beginning, this program is designed to help you succeed, no matter what. They’re here to help you and here to help me. I am truly, truly grateful.”
As the Southwest Tech Student of the Year, Daniel Ortega received a $1,000 scholarship from the Cedar City Rotary Club. In January, Ortega will be recognized in Salt Lake City with top students within the Utah System of Technical Colleges (USTC).
