Forging His Way in the Field of HVACR
Minneapolis College Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVACR) student Ben Oman was humbled and honored to earn first place in the 2025 SkillsUSA Minnesota State Leadership and Skills Conference held in early April. Oman competed alongside his classmates Kyle Kusie, Henry Morris, and Michael Rutherford as well as 555 of the top career and technical education students from 25 schools across the state. Oman will move on to compete in the SkillsUSA Championships in Atlanta from June 21-27.
The SkillsUSA Championships is the premier showcase of America’s most highly skilled career and technical students. It’s also one of the largest hands-on workforce development events in the world. The event, called “awe-inspiring,” features more than 6,500 state champions from across the United States competing head-to-head in 114 skilled and leadership competitions.
A path to HVACR
Oman grew up in Minneapolis attending Roosevelt High School, which prides itself on motivating students to engage in rigorous academic experiences ensuring when students graduate, they will be prepared for the college and/or career of their choosing. After graduating from high school in 2018, Oman received a scholarship and earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Construction Management from the University of Minnesota. Subsequent to completing an internship in the field, he learned the path wasn’t the right fit for him so he began looking at other options.
The son of a diesel mechanic and nephew and cousin of two HVACR tradesmen, Oman was exposed early on to the value of a career in the trades. HVACR piqued his interest so one the faculty members at the University of Minnesota directed him to the program at Minneapolis College. After meeting with instructors on campus and learning about the program, it sealed the deal.
Oman began working alongside his uncle and cousin at Quality Refrigeration while attending the HVACR Program at Minneapolis College. “I am grateful to Quality for financing my education at Minneapolis College, a place that prepares students like me to diagnose problems, perform repairs, and conduct maintenance on residential and commercial systems,” said Oman who notes how well the College’s students consistently perform during the SkillsUSA competitions is testament to that.
Oman will graduate from Minneapolis College May 19 with an Associate of Arts Degree in HVACR. “I love school so it’s bittersweet to be graduating,” said Oman who appreciates the comprehensive training he received from the College and the time, attention, and skills of his instructors. “I am prepared to continue working in the field of HVACR and feel confident and secure in my career choice.”
Oman encourages students to tour Minneapolis College, talk with instructors, and find a program that fits their interests. “Be humble, be open to learning, and be willing to share what you know with others,” said Oman.