Henry and Cornelia Ritter Memorial Scholarship

Honoring a Legacy Through the Trades What are your career goals within the trades, what inspired you to pursue this path, and how do you hope to give back to others in the future? Three weeks before I decided to pursue welding, I held my grandfather’s hand as he passed away. In that moment, I promised myself I’d carry his legacy forward. He was a quiet but proud man who believed in doing things the right way — not the easy way — and taught me that there’s dignity in working with your hands. He’s the reason I’ve chosen to pursue welding and commit myself to a life of skilled labor, service, and steady progress. My grandfather introduced me to welding when I was younger. I remember being mesmerized by the bright arcs of light and the quiet intensity it took to bring metal to life. He showed me that craftsmanship wasn’t just about building things — it was about building character. After he passed, I knew I needed to get serious about my future. That’s when I applied to Tidewater Tech in Norfolk, Virginia, to become a certified welder. My career goal is to master the welding trade and eventually start my own fabrication business. I want to gain hands-on experience in structural and custom welding, while also earning the certifications I need to grow. But more than just working for myself, I hope to use my business to create opportunities for others — especially young people from underserved communities who may not have access to college or clear career paths. I want to give them the tools, training, and mentorship to build a future with their own hands. I come from a low-income background and have faced many obstacles, including student loan debt from a previous attempt at college. I’ve worked multiple jobs to support myself and helped care for my grandfather during his final months. These responsibilities taught me discipline, empathy, and a deep respect for hard work — values I know are essential in the trades. Community service has always mattered to me. I’ve helped with food drives, assisted neighbors in need, and supported local veterans. I believe that true success isn’t just about what you build — it’s about who you lift up along the way. Like Henry Ritter, I believe in servant leadership. That means using the skills I gain in this trade not just to better my life, but to serve others and strengthen my community. This scholarship would help me continue my education and fulfill the promise I made to my grandfather. I want to live a life that honors him — and that reflects the same humility, work ethic, and generosity that Henry and Cornelia Ritter lived by. Through welding, I hope to build a future that creates not just strong structures, but strong people and stronger communities.