Hank Anderson Memorial Scholarship

From a young age, I’ve always been fascinated by how things work. The hum of an engine, the way gears shift smoothly, and the intricate details of machines have always intrigued me. It was this curiosity that led me to pursue a career in the automotive industry, where I aim to combine my hands-on skills with my passion for problem-solving. My journey toward becoming an auto mechanic and studying automotive technology has been shaped by my life experiences, and I am eager to make a meaningful impact in the world through this field. Growing up in Hawaii, I was exposed to many long drives. Living in the mountains, the only way to get around was with a car. I have spent many hours inside a car. From the time I was little, I have watched and helped my father, who was a mechanic, prior to becoming disabled, work on cars. Fascinated by the process of diagnosing issues and making repairs. Whether it was fixing a flat tire or swapping out some brake pads, these hands-on tasks ignited my interest in mechanics. I began experimenting with my own small projects, tinkering with machines and cars to better understand their mechanics. This curiosity soon became a passion that would shape my future. When I first learned about automotive technology, I was immediately drawn to the complexity and precision required in the field. The idea of diagnosing problems and making repairs that directly impact people’s safety and mobility is what excites me most about being an auto mechanic. As I’ve explored the world of automotive repair, I’ve found myself eager to dive deeper into the science behind modern vehicles—everything from engine performance to electrical systems. My interest has only deepened through working with my dad, where I’ve gained practical skills and an appreciation for the importance of staying up-to-date with technological advances in the automotive industry. In pursuing a degree in automotive technology, I am preparing myself to enter a field where I can make an immediate and lasting impact. With a solid foundation in diagnostic skills, repair techniques, and customer service, I aim to become a skilled auto mechanic who can offer reliable solutions to everyday drivers. Beyond simply fixing cars, I see my work as a way to contribute to people’s lives by ensuring that they can travel safely and efficiently. My goal is not just to be a technician, but to lead by example in my community and the broader automotive industry. I want to help others understand the value of auto mechanics as a profession and encourage future generations to pursue careers in automotive technology. In the short term, I plan to gain hands-on experience working with advanced diagnostic equipment and expanding my knowledge of repairing and maintaining a variety of vehicles. In the long run, I hope to open my own repair shop, focusing on sustainable practices and cutting-edge technologies. I aim to create an inclusive space where individuals of all backgrounds feel welcome to learn about and work on vehicles, fostering a community of innovation and expertise. At the heart of my career goals is a commitment to making a difference. Through integrity, dedication, and a passion for problem-solving, I plan to use my skills to improve the lives of others. Whether it’s through providing reliable, sustainable repairs or mentoring aspiring mechanics, I am committed to contributing to the betterment of the automotive industry and society as a whole. As I continue my journey in automotive technology, I am excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead to create a positive impact on the world.

Ever since I was a kid, I’ve been drawn to the way things work. While other kids were glued to video games or building with blocks, I was the one taking things apart—remote controls, flashlights, anything I could get my hands on—and trying to figure out how to put them back together. That curiosity quickly grew into a passion for mechanical work, especially when it came to cars. Growing up with ADHD, school was never easy for me. I often struggled to stay focused in a traditional classroom setting. Sitting still, reading from textbooks, or filling out worksheets made my mind wander. But I discovered something important early on: when I was using my hands—whether I was assembling something, fixing a bike, or working on a small engine—I could focus better than ever. It was like my brain clicked into place when I had a task in front of me that required movement, problem-solving, and precision. That’s when I realized I wasn’t broken—I just learned differently. And mechanical work became my outlet, my focus, and eventually, my purpose. My passion for cars really took off in high school when I joined the Automotive Technologies career program at Tallmadge High School. That experience changed everything for me. I finally found a learning environment that matched how I think and work. Being in the shop, running diagnostics, tearing down engines, and learning how different vehicle systems function felt natural to me. It wasn’t just school—it was something I looked forward to every day. I found pride in solving problems that others might give up on, and I felt a sense of accomplishment every time I got a car running again or figured out a complex issue under the hood. No one in my family is a mechanic, but my mom has always been my biggest supporter. She raised me and my sister on her own, working hard to give us every opportunity she could. Even though she didn’t always understand how I could spend hours in the garage or under the hood of a car, she always encouraged me to follow my passion. Her work ethic and determination to provide for us inspired me to do something meaningful with my skills—something that could support me and, someday, give back to others like her. This fall, I’ll be starting my associate degree in Automotive Technology at Stark State College. I’m excited to continue learning and eventually work in a shop—or maybe even open my own. I’m especially interested in diagnostics and vehicle electronics, where technology and mechanics come together. Long term, I want to be someone customers can count on—not just for repairs, but for honest, reliable work that keeps them safe on the road. For me, automotive work isn’t just a career—it’s a calling. It’s where I found focus, confidence, and a future. I’m proud of where I’ve come from, and I’m even more excited about where I’m going. There’s something special about bringing a car back to life with your own two hands. It’s more than just fixing something—it’s creating motion, solving problems, and doing work that matters. That’s the kind of work I want to do every day.