Kyle Walton of Bristol, Pennsylvania, won Ryder System’s 24th Annual Ryder Top Technician Skills Competition. He was crowned the 2025 Top Tech at the Minneapolis Convention Center, taking home $50,000 in grand prize money from the annual competition. Jean-Sébastien Houle of Ryder’s Boucherville, Quebec shop, took second place, and Oscar Perez of Ryder’s Pomona, CA location, took third. Each won a $10,000 cash prize.
“Congratulations to Kyle on earning the 2025 Top Tech title,” said Robert Sanchez, chairman and CEO of Ryder. “And thank you to all the finalists for their commitment, teamwork, and exceptional performance. The Top Tech program not only celebrates their success but also strengthens our technician community through recognition, learning, and shared excellence.”
The top 10 finalists for the competition were selected after taking written exams and participating in a series of regional competitions, where they distinguished themselves from Ryder’s 5,000 U.S. and Canada-based techs. Then, at the finals, they competed in a full day of hands-on skills challenges.
More specifically, the final competition included 10 timed stations covering advanced diagnostics in aftertreatment systems, multiplexing, electrical systems, electronic engines, preventive maintenance, and more.
“This year’s event in Minneapolis was nothing short of spectacular,” adds Bryce Kinsley, vice president of maintenance operations at Ryder. “It was inspiring to watch ten of our most skilled technicians apply their knowledge under pressure with accuracy, speed, and pride. Kyle Walton represents what’s possible when you combine experience, ongoing training, and passion for excellence.”
