Davis Tech Awards 1,223 Diplomas in Largest Class Ever

Davis Technical College awarded degrees to 1,223 students on Thursday, a figure that sets a new record for the largest graduating class in the institution's history. The ceremony took place at Western Sports Park in Kaysville, drawing more than 2,000 attendees who included family members, friends, and college staff.

The college has operated since 1978 and serves high school and adult students in Davis and Morgan Counties. It provides hands-on technical education through certificates in various fields, including business, construction, health professions, and transportation.

The current semester marks the peak enrollment period for the Davis Tech semi-annual graduation cycle. While the institution has grown over the decades, the 1,223 graduates represented at the event outnumber any previous group to have completed the program.

Faculty members cited the transformation of students as a primary driver of the program's appeal. Codi Frederiksen, a Pharmacy Technician faculty member and commencement speaker, noted that students often arrive unsure of their trajectory. She stated that by graduation, they gain knowledge, confidence, and skills, becoming ready for careers.

Isabelle Salvador, a Culinary Arts graduate, exemplified the direct link between training and employment. She has recently been hired at the Davis Tech Cafe, a position secured through extensive hands-on training in a commercial kitchen. Salvador credited her instructors and support network with helping her develop her skills and advance her career.

Stacee McIff, President of Snow College, delivered the keynote address. She urged graduates to adopt a growth mindset, advising them to accept feedback and own their mistakes. McIff emphasized that this approach makes individuals better employees and partners in their personal lives.

McIff also promoted the TechConnect program, a collaboration designed to streamline the path from a technical certificate to an associate degree. The program allows students to apply their existing technical college credits toward an associate degree at Snow College, building on work they have already completed.

During the 2025-26 school year, 61 Davis Tech students utilized this pathway to transfer to Snow College. Across the eight Utah technical colleges, 283 students transferred to Snow College during the same period.

Davis Tech also maintains a partnership with the Utah Department of Corrections. Inmates in this program have access to 11 courses, including welding, automotive, and business. UDC students were part of the Thursday graduating class.

Since 2010, thousands of inmates have participated in this career-focused training. Last year, 494 students were enrolled in the program. The partnership reports a recidivism rate of 28% for Davis Tech graduates, a figure that stands in contrast to the national average of approximately 70%.