ASU-Beebe alum places third in National SkillsUSA Competition
SEARCY — Austin Fisher turned his childhood love of tinkering into a career path, and he is now turning heads in his chosen field.
Fisher, a double major, graduated from Arkansas State University-Beebe in May 2021 with an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Agriculture Equipment Technology and an Associate of Applied Science Degree in General Technology with a focus in Power Sports Technology. He placed first in the Power Equipment Technology competition with SkillsUSA and went on to compete at the national level, where he placed third. Both competitions were held virtually this year.
“I didn’t know if I wanted to do it because it was going to be held virtually, but I’m glad I did,” Fisher said. “I thought, ‘You’re only going to get one chance to do this.’”
Fisher said the competition consisted of a written exam and practical-application tasks. He was required to video himself troubleshooting issues with small engines, including a lawn mower and a weed trimmer, explain what the issues were and demonstrate how to repair the problems. Fisher said the issues included everything from electrical issues to valve adjustments. All tasks in the competition had a 15-minute time limit.
“It was very applicable to my work, ”said Fisher, who is employed as a service technician at Greenway Equipment in Newport.
For placing third at nationals, Fisher was awarded a medal, a banner and approximately $2,600 in equipment.
Shawn Taillon, department head for the Agriculture Equipment Technology program, said Fisher was an inspirational student.
“Not only did he complete two degrees and maintain a 4.0 gradepoint average, he also completed an internship, plus he completed a welding certificate, ”Taillon said.
Fisher was also awarded $1,000 as the John Deere Outstanding Student.
For more information about ASU-Beebe programs, call (501) 882-3600 or visit at www.asub.edu.