Got passed over for lead tech after 4 years because I never asked for it

Last Thursday my boss pulled me into the office and gave the lead tech spot to a kid who has been with us 14 months. I have been at this shop for 4 years, I know every job that comes through those doors, and I train the new hires. When I asked why, he said and I quote, "you never said you wanted it." I sat there just staring at the wall. Turns out the other guy walked in 6 months ago and straight up told him he wanted to move up and asked what he needed to do. Nobody ever teaches you that part. I figured good work speaks for itself. It does not, apparently. Now I am sitting here wondering how many other things I missed because I just kept my head down. How do you bring this up without sounding like you are begging or making it weird with everyone?