Iowa Student Takes Third in Microsoft Office Championship
Iowa is proving its tech talent once again. Riviera Foley, an Iowa student, captured third place in the Microsoft PowerPoint (Office 2019) category at the Certiport 2026 Microsoft Office Specialist U.S. National Championship. The victory highlights how young Iowans are building real-world skills to thrive in a competitive, technology-driven economy through individual initiative rather than relying on government programs.
How Did Iowa Perform at the 2026 Microsoft Office Specialist Championship?
Foley stood out among 140 finalists who traveled to Nashville, Tennessee, for the 24th annual competition. Thousands of students, ages 13 to 22, originally qualified by passing Microsoft Word, Excel, or PowerPoint certification exams. Foley's third-place finish in PowerPoint (Office 2019) puts Iowa on the map alongside winners from states like Utah, Idaho, and Kansas.
The competition recognizes outstanding achievement in Microsoft Office and empowers students to build confidence as they develop essential digital skills. Rather than just sitting in a classroom learning theory, these students are earning industry-recognized credentials that directly translate to the modern workforce.
Why Do Microsoft Office Skills Matter for the Future Workforce?
As the economy shifts toward artificial intelligence and technological innovation, practical digital skills are becoming non-negotiable. Pearson, the organization behind the event, emphasized that these certifications give students a serious edge in the job market.
These students have gained a valuable credential for their resumes that highlights their commitment to developing sought-after skills and creating a pathway for continued learning and growth. Both the certification they've achieved and the title 'Microsoft Office Specialist' will benefit them as they advance in their academic and professional journeys.
Laura Peterson, Managing Director of Professional Assessments at Pearson, stressed that these students are not only excelling in digital skills but are also embracing the newest technology and preparing for an AI-driven economy. Their initiative and adaptability set a powerful example for navigating the evolving landscape of technology.
What Is the Prize for the National Champions?
First-place winners from the U.S. championship are heading to the global stage. They will compete at the Certiport 2026 Microsoft Office Specialist World Championship in Anaheim, California, from July 27 to 30. The national champs walk away with a $3,000 prize and will compete against more than 100 international finalists for the world title.
Who Were the 2026 Microsoft Office Specialist U.S. National Champions?
Alongside Foley's impressive showing, students from across the country took home top honors:
- Microsoft Word (Microsoft 365 Apps): First: Scott Chamberlain, Utah; Second: Julia Schieferdecker, Illinois; Third: Payne Brown, Idaho
- Microsoft Excel (Microsoft 365 Apps): First: Ethan Strayer, Idaho; Second: Aiden Haynes, Tennessee; Third: Gage Patty, Kansas
- Microsoft PowerPoint (Microsoft 365 Apps): First: Rebecca Sutherlin, Texas; Second: Marina Simmons, Tennessee; Third: Steven Miller, Utah
- Microsoft Word (Office 2019): First: Reid Chapman, Kansas; Second: Bryan Lochan, New York; Third: Rebecca Korchman, New Jersey
- Microsoft Excel (Office 2019): First: Paul Hudson, Illinois; Second: Isabel Winkler, Michigan; Third: Mason Indiraraj, Wisconsin
- Microsoft PowerPoint (Office 2019): First: Amar Azar, New Jersey; Second: Julie Chea, Georgia; Third: Riviera Foley, Iowa
What Did Microsoft Say About the Competition?
Corporate leaders are taking notice of these young professionals. Jeana Jorgensen, Corporate Vice President of Global Skilling at Microsoft, praised the competitors for their ambition and perseverance.
We are proud to support the Certiport 2026 Microsoft Office Specialist U.S. National Championship, honoring students whose ambition, perseverance, and commitment to learning have brought them to this national stage to showcase their digital expertise. This competition shows what's possible when student talent, digital skills, and certification come together, a powerful combination that prepares students for success in the modern workforce.
What Is the Certiport Microsoft Office Specialist Championship?
This is the only official Microsoft-recognized certification program for Microsoft Office globally. It serves as a powerful instrument for assessing learners' skills and preparing them for real-world application of their knowledge. Students who earn these certifications prove they have the practical abilities businesses need right now, making them highly attractive to employers in a free-market economy.
How Do Students Qualify for the Microsoft Office Specialist Championship?
Students ages 13 to 22 qualify by passing Microsoft Word, Excel, or PowerPoint certification exams. These exams test practical, hands-on abilities rather than theoretical knowledge, ensuring that winners have actual workforce-ready skills.
Where Is the 2026 Microsoft Office Specialist World Championship Held?
The world championship takes place in Anaheim, California, from July 27 to 30. First-place winners from the U.S. national competition will compete against more than 100 international finalists for the world title.