Utah State University Eastern news release
Price, UT, May 28, 2026 – The winners of Certiport’s 2026 Adobe Certified Professional (ACP) U.S. National Championship Spring Qualifier have been announced by Certiport, a Pearson business, the leading provider of performance-based IT certification exams that accelerate academic and career opportunities for learners. Winning a place in Certiport’s ACP U.S. National Championship is Ethan Kerr from Pinnacle Canyon High School, a student in the Rural Technology Pathways Program through USU Eastern, Price. Kerr competed against students from across the United States to earn this coveted spot. His Adobe Illustrator design was chosen among thousands of submissions.
“Creation has always been a big part of my life; it shows and proves your humanity. Despite the process being stressful or full of mistakes, it shows your individuality. I am very excited for this opportunity to expand my art and design work,” said Kerr.
To compete in the Spring Qualifier, students aged 13 to 22 were eligible to earn an invitation by passing an Adobe Certified Professional InDesign, Photoshop, or Illustrator certification exam and submitting an original design by May 1, 2026. The students with the top projects in the country are invited to represent their community and compete.
“I am so very proud of Ethan and his skills in the design field,” said Ashley Hardy, his USU Eastern instructor. “He has worked diligently to incorporate his talents into the Adobe programs and express his unique style. Ethan is a perfect candidate to represent us at the U.S National Championship in June. I am excited to see what opportunities this provides Ethan for his future.”
Kerr will get to represent Utah at the upcoming 2026 Adobe Certified Professional U.S. National Championship in Nashville, Tennessee. During this event, they will compete, network with other top students from around the United States, and be celebrated for their accomplishments. The top three winners will be named U.S. National Champions and earn a trip to represent the United States and compete in Certiport’s 2026 Adobe Certified Professional World Championship in Anaheim, California.
“We’re impressed by these students. They have proven they are the best in their state at using Adobe products effectively. Plus, they now have an important distinction to place on their resume that shows a desire to learn and validate in-demand skills,” said Krista Ketchmark, Vice President Certiport and Global IT Business Development, Pearson. “The title ‘Adobe Certified Professional Champion’ will serve them well in their academic and career pursuits.”
Certiport’s Adobe Certified Professional certification is the official Adobe-recognized certification for Adobe professionals globally and serves as a powerful instrument for assessing students’ skills and preparing them for real-world application of their knowledge. Locally, students have the opportunity to earn Certiport certifications through Utah State University Eastern’s Rural Technology Pathways Program, including Adobe, Information Technology Specialist, Microsoft Office, and Critical Career Skills certifications. Pinnacle Canyon High School has been a founding partner of the program and has supported the opportunity for many students to earn these industry recognized certifications.
For more information about Certiport’s Adobe Certified Professional U.S. National Championship visit https://acpchampionship.