Idaho State University Robotics Program Makes SkillsUSA History with Third Consecutive National Championship

Idaho State University student Angel Nava has earned a gold medal in Electronics Technology at the 2026 SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference, making history as part of the first program ever to win the national Electronics Technology competition three consecutive years.

Competing against the top state champions from across the United States, Nava demonstrated exceptional technical skills in electronics troubleshooting, circuit analysis, testing, and systems diagnostics to claim the national title. The SkillsUSA Championships are considered the premier showcase of career and technical education students in the nation, with competitions designed and judged by industry professionals.

Nava's victory marks a historic achievement for Idaho State University's Robotics and Communications Systems Engineering Technology program. While winning a national championship is a remarkable accomplishment on its own, earning gold in the same national competition for three consecutive years has never before been achieved in SkillsUSA history.

“Angel is a great example of what a young person from Idaho can accomplish with a little determination and hard work. Our students winning this competition for three consecutive years shows why they are in such high demand,” said Shane Slack, Robotics Coordinator for the College of Technology.

The significance of the accomplishment was recognized at the national level. Following the competition, SkillsUSA Executive Director Chelle Travis met with Nava to acknowledge the historic nature of the achievement and its impact on Idaho State University and SkillsUSA.

The Robotics and Communications Systems Engineering Technology program at Idaho State University College of Technology prepares students for careers in electronics, robotics, automation, communications systems, industrial controls, and advanced manufacturing. Through hands-on laboratory experiences, industry partnerships, and national competitions, students develop the technical skills employers demand in today's workforce.

Nava's national championship continues a tradition of excellence for Idaho State University's Robotics and Communications Systems Engineering Technology program. Further, it strengthens the university's reputation as a leader in workforce development and technical education.

For more information about the Robotics and Communications Systems Engineering Technology program, visit www.isu.edu/robotics.