West Chicago Community High School students showcased their business, finance, and technology skills on the national stage this spring, culminating in a top-five national finish at the 2026 Business Professionals of America (BPA) National Leadership Conference in Nashville, Tennessee.
The achievement follows an outstanding performance at the BPA State Leadership Conference held February 26–28 in Oak Brook, where 18 Wildcats competed against some of Illinois’ top business students. Five students advanced to the national competition after earning top finishes in their respective events.
Leading the way at the state level was the Economic Research Team of Brian Nguyen, Dirk Ulbrich, Ryan Slattery, and Daniel Szacilowski, which captured 1st Place in Illinois. The championship marked a remarkable accomplishment for Nguyen, Ulbrich, and Slattery, who successfully defended their state title after also earning first place in the event the previous year.
In addition to the team’s success, Daniel Szacilowski qualified for nationals in Device Configuration and Troubleshooting, while Joey Marszalek earned a national berth with a 5th Place finish in Fundamental Accounting at the state competition.
Under the guidance of Business Education Teacher and BPA Adviser Kevin Jarosz, the West Chicago chapter continues to provide students with opportunities to develop leadership, communication, and career-ready skills through competition and real-world business experiences.
The five students then traveled to Nashville to compete alongside thousands of delegates representing more than 25 states and three countries at the BPA National Leadership Conference.
West Chicago Community High School is proud to announce that
Joey Marszalek earned 5th Place nationally in Fundamental Accounting, placing among the nation’s elite competitors in the event. Marszalek outperformed 71 other state and international qualifiers to secure a spot on the national awards stage.
Business Professionals of America is the premier Career and Technical Student Organization for students pursuing careers in business management, finance, information technology, office administration, and related fields. Through competitive events, leadership development opportunities, and real-world business experiences, BPA prepares students for success in college and future careers.
Congratulations to Brian Nguyen, Dirk Ulbrich, Ryan Slattery, Daniel Szacilowski, and Joey Marszalek on their outstanding achievements and for representing the Wildcat community with excellence.
About West Chicago Community High School District 94
West Chicago Community High School District 94 serves the communities of West Chicago, Winfield, Warrenville, Carol Stream, and Wheaton, Illinois. The district is committed to its mission to 'ignite a passion for learning, foster leadership & responsibility, & empower all learners to live their personal best.'
