Jackson Hastings Named Davis Technical College 2026 Student of the Year
Kaysville, Utah, December 5, 2025 – Davis Technical College (Davis Tech) selected Jackson Hastings, a Networking and Cybersecurity student, as the 2026 Student of the Year. The announcement was made today at a luncheon on the Davis Tech main campus.
Marîa Medina Cilva from the Automotive Technology program was awarded Runner-Up.
Hastings and Cilva were chosen from six finalists. Each finalist represents a distinct school at Davis Tech, and all students will continue to represent Davis Tech in 2026.
The 2026 Students of the Year for each school are:
School of Business and Information Technology
Jackson Hastings, Networking and Cybersecurity program
School of Construction
Beckham Dickson, Plumbing Apprenticeship program
School of Health Professions
Melanie Morrison, Surgical Technology program
School of Manufacturing
Gabriel Peterson, Welding Technology and Machining Technology programs
School of Service Professions
Ellie Hill, Cosmetology program
School of Transportation
Marîa Medina Cilva, Automotive Technology program
While working as an audio-visual installer on high-end video and network systems, Hastings discovered a growing interest in networking. That work also introduced him to programming, inspiring him to pursue further education and industry-recognized certifications, which ultimately led him to the Networking and Cybersecurity program at Davis Tech.
Prior to starting the program, Hastings had many struggles and self-doubts. He admits, “In high school and previous college experiences, I wasn’t a great student. I often lacked motivation and struggled with organizing my time.” Like many students, he had a nagging feeling that maybe he just wasn’t cut out to further his education.
Things changed at Davis Tech. His instructor, Jeremy Black, now says, “Jackson is the kind of student you hope for in every cohort: focused, reliable, and genuinely good to have in class. Even though Jackson has a demanding job, a busy home life, and is in a major career transition, he has stayed steady and committed. Jackson is proof that determination and effort can truly reshape a person’s future.”
Marîa Medina Cilva is also changing her life. As a mother and grandmother, Cilva had previously worked as both a lawyer and a police officer in her home country of Venezuela. Two years ago, she and her family fled what she describes as “tyranny and dictatorship” to seek safety and a new beginning in the United States. Once here, she realized she needed to learn English and develop skills for a new career.
Cilva recalled her long-standing interest in becoming an auto mechanic—an opportunity she says she was denied in her youth due to “strong gender inequality in trades traditionally considered for men.” Now, she finally has the chance to pursue a career she truly loves.
During the luncheon, the six Students of the Year were introduced and honored for their commitment and contributions to their program and the College.
“These awards spotlight the absolute best among our students! These individuals exemplify excellence, grit, and passion in their programs,” said Davis Tech Vice President of Instruction and Student Success Dr. Kelly Simerick. “What stands out about each of these students is their resilience, their creativity, and their drive. They inspire all of us, and we’re proud to have them represent Davis Tech.”