Erick Tapia Wins Gold at National SkillsUSA Competition in Smart Home Technology

7/2/2025

Lamar Institute of Technology (LIT) Cybersecurity and Networking Technology student Erick Tapia claimed a gold medal in the Internet of Things (Smart Home) category at the 2025 SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference, held June 23–28 in Atlanta, Georgia.

The competition, which simulates real-world smart home installations, required participants to install and program a range of connected devices including televisions, thermostats, smoke detectors, lighting systems and voice assistants like Alexa.Competitors worked in mock residential cubicles where they were judged on technical skill, integration and the ability to make systems interact intelligently—such as sensing presence in different rooms.

Tapia, who owns a small business specializing in home automation and audio-visual installations, brought years of hands-on experience to the event.

“Erick has a natural knack for this,” said Tim Storbeck, Cyber Security and Networking Technology Program Instructor. “Even in class, he was the one helping others, showing them how to troubleshoot and solve problems. This win is just a reflection of his talent and dedication.”

SkillsUSA national competitions are created, overseen and judged by industry volunteers, each committed to building the next generation of skilled professionals, career-ready leaders.

“Everybody at LIT is incredibly proud and excited for Erick,” Storbeck added. “As much as I believed in him and knew he had the skills to win gold—It was so exciting for all of us to see him called to the stage.”

For more information about LIT’s Cybersecurity and Networking Technology program, visit www.lit.edu/https://www.lit.edu/programs/business/cyber-security-and-networking-technology/associate-of-applied-science-aas