November 20, 2025
Story by Joe Vinduska
Courtesy photo submitted
Barton Community College Construction Technology Program Coordinator Matt Mazouch attended the Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Kansas and Build Up Kansas Conference in early November, where he was recognized as the 2025 Post-Secondary Instructor of the Year in the Western Region, and Barton was named the Post-Secondary School of the Year for the Western Region.
The awards are presented by the AGC, recognizing outstanding educators and institutions that are advancing workforce development in the construction industry. AGC represents the state’s leading commercial contractors and works to strengthen the construction industry through education, advocacy, and workforce development.
Mazouch said the recognition reflects Barton’s commitment to building and maintaining a strong relationship with regional industry partners.
“We have meetings with industry regularly to report to them what we are doing and get their input on how to improve our programs,” he said. “We have had some good feedback so far, and our partners have helped us shape the program according to what the workforce is lacking. From the top down, our department is working really hard at building comprehensive offerings that fill a need for our local industries. Four years ago, we didn’t even have a construction or plumbing program on campus. It’s exciting to see the progress.”
Plumbing Program Coordinator Jeff Meyer said Barton is committed to helping provide skilled workers for the area and beyond.
“I’m fortunate to be in a position where I can pass on the knowledge that I’ve accumulated for the last 38 years working in the plumbing industry,” he said. “The students make the job fun and rewarding. They are a big reason why I love my job.”
Barton President Dr. Marcus Garstecki said Barton is proud to support workforce training education and said the recognition of these programs and their faculty is well-deserved.
“We are grateful to the AGC for honoring Barton Community College and our faculty. Matt and Jeff have played a pivotal role in shaping programs offering high-quality, hands-on training for students entering essential trades. These awards highlight the collective commitment of our faculty, staff, and partners to strengthen the regional workforce.”
Barton’s construction technology and plumbing programs provide students with in-demand skills and certifications, offering a direct pathway into the growing construction field through hands-on experiences and opportunities that can be completed swiftly while at the same time making sure they’re ready to enter the workforce confident and qualified.
For more information, contact Mazouch at mazouchm@bartonccc.edu or (620) 792-9336 or visit construction.bartonccc.edu.