In Episode 69, Career Readiness team members Matt Heaton and Tom Chappell take the host seat to chat with Jackson Baker, a senior at Hillcrest High School and Alabama’s first-ever SkillsUSA Heavy Equipment Operation State Champion.
Jackson shares how he was introduced to heavy equipment, how he prepared for competition in just two weeks, and what it was like to win the state title and compete on the national stage. He also explains how learning the components of machinery and key safety procedures through Skills for Success courses made all the difference.
From working a summer job to planning his next steps at Shelton State, Jackson reflects on the power of hands-on learning, safety training, and mentorship. Whether you’re an educator, student, or industry partner, this conversation is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when career training starts early and meets students where they are.