UVU graduate creates app that makes it easy to select a college major
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- Steve Lockhart poses for a portrait in the photo studio on the Utah Valley University campus in Orem on Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2023.
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- Steve Lockhart, Skillco CEO
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- Steve Lockhart poses for a portrait in the photo studio on the Utah Valley University campus in Orem on Tuesday, Aug. 15, 2023.
Choosing a college major just got easier at Utah Valley University (UVU). The university is now providing students free access to Skillco, an innovative app developed by UVU graduate Steve Lockhart, which helps students visualize their skills, select their majors and coursework, and confidently prepare for their careers.
“I know what it’s like to feel lost in college,” Lockhart said. “UVU gave me the support I needed to persist, and that’s exactly what Skillco aims to provide for today’s students.”
Skillco integrates career data, readiness assessments, and UVU’s curriculum to provide students with a clear path to success. The platform offers insights into more than 750 careers, detailing salary expectations, industry growth rates, and required skill sets. By syncing coursework with real-world job opportunities, the app ensures students graduate with the skills employers demand.
Students begin by exploring career options that match their interests and strengths. They receive a career readiness score based on their coursework and knowledge, helping them understand how prepared they are for their chosen field. Skillco then guides them in selecting the right courses to build the skills they need.
For example, a student wanting to become a marketing manager can use Skillco to view salary projections, job growth trends, and the necessary skill sets. The platform then outlines the precise UVU courses that will help them develop those skills — eliminating guesswork and unnecessary coursework while increasing confidence in their career choices.
Lockhart’s deep connection to UVU shaped his belief in personalized academic guidance. Before graduating, he changed majors three times before finding his passion. His experience inspired him to create Skillco.
Skillco began as an igniter project that was led by Lockhart and involved other UVU students using the university’s e2i program. Tammy Clark, associate provost for Academic Innovation, said: “This hands-on collaboration led to a successful startup and full-time roles, showcasing how e2i bridges education and career pathways. This initiative not only fueled innovative thinking but also provided real-world experience that empowered students to transition smoothly into their professional lives.”
Beyond academic guidance, Skillco also supports Utah’s workforce and economy. By helping students build in-demand skills, it strengthens the job market and ensures businesses can find qualified graduates ready to excel in their industries. It also ensures students will graduate with confidence and employers can trust the skills of new graduates.
For more information about Skillco and its partnership with UVU, visit https://join.skillco.com/home.
