
Hobbies and interests
Basketball
Andre Bennett
635
Bold Points1x
Finalist
Andre Bennett
635
Bold Points1x
FinalistBio
I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pa. I will be attending the Automotive Training Center (ATC) in June 2025, focusing on automotive and high-performance technology. I have been a dedicated basketball player on both the JV and varsity teams, serving as the JV captain last year. I am actively involved in my school’s Black Student Union, multicultural organization, and ski club. In my community, I have worked with the Table Ministries in Kensington, PA, and participated in a medical mission trip to the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. These experiences have reshaped my view of the world and reinforced my desire to serve others. I believe I am a strong candidate due to my hard work, dedication, drive, and eagerness to learn. My long-term goal is to become a master mechanic and use the skills acquired at ATC to continue helping others in need.
Education
Automotive Training Center-Exton
Trade SchoolMajors:
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies/Technicians, Other
Minors:
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies/Technicians, Other
Collegium Charter School
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Trade School
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies/Technicians, Other
Career
Dream career field:
Automotive
Dream career goals:
Kitchen staff, server in dining hall to individuals in care
Ashbridge Manor2023 – 2023
Sports
Basketball
Varsity2022 – 20253 years
Public services
Volunteering
The Table Ministries — Assisting pastor, working on food line and assisting nurses2024 – 2024Volunteering
Solid Rock International — Assisting nursing staff, providers and pastor2024 – 2024
Future Interests
Volunteering
Philanthropy
Entrepreneurship
Henry and Cornelia Ritter Memorial Scholarship
Marie Jean Baptiste Memorial Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 2025 graduate from Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center in Exton and began school this June. I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology. I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license, I began fixing my vehicle. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together. Most recently, I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil-overs, headlights, and rear lights. I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety, and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for skilled trades. It is intriguing to understand how complex systems operate.
Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. Last year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA, providing aid to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. I also went on a medical mission trip for a week in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. While I was in the Dominican Republic (DR), I was able to provide aid and prayer to both Dominicans and Haitians. I was able to witness love and unity on the island of Quisqueya unlike what is seen on the media. I remember while making home visits with the pastor I had the opportunity to witness him pray over a young Haitian girl who had arrived in DR a few days earlier. She was fed, provided with toiletries, received medical care and prenatal vitamins. It was impactful for me as this young girl was my age. These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to serve others.
My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. It will also allow me to help purchase and fix a van for our church youth group. I am a youth counselor at The Pointe in Parkesburg, PA, where I assist with the day-to-day operations and mentor the youth. I have an opportunity to mentor students who are interested in automotive technology.
Looking ahead, my career goals are clear. I aim to begin my journey in the automotive field by working at an auto shop or dealership. My ultimate ambition is to specialize in engine building and tuning, mastering the intricate mechanics that drive high-performance vehicles.
Hank Anderson Memorial Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology.
I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license, I began fixing my vehicle. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together. Most recently, I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil-overs, headlights, and rear lights.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety, and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for skilled trades. It is intriguing to understand how complex systems operate.
Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. Last year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA, providing aid to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. I also went on a medical mission trip for a week in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to serve others. My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. It will also allow me to help purchase and fix a van for our church youth group. Currently, we do not have transportation, but this is something that is needed. I also want to empower others in following their dreams and sharing the importance of trade in society through mentorship. I am a youth counselor at The Pointe in Parkesburg, PA, where I assist with the day-to-day operations and mentor the youth. I have an opportunity to share what I am learning with students who are interested in automotive technology.
My uncle, Michael, passed away at the age of 26 years old from Cardiomyopathy. I was only 2 years old when he passed away, however, throughout my life I heard stories of his love for cars and motorcycles. He loved fixing cars and improving their performance. Although my uncle is deceased, I believe he was influential in my enthusiasm for the automotive industry. I am honored that his tool set was passed down to me and I am able to carry on his legacy.
Looking ahead, my career goals are clear. I aim to begin my journey in the automotive field by working at an auto shop or dealership. My ultimate ambition is to specialize in engine building and tuning, mastering the intricate mechanics that drive high-performance vehicles. Over time, I plan to establish my performance shop in my hometown, filling a gap in the local car enthusiasts’ spirit and giving back to the community that shaped me. In conclusion, my leadership roles, community involvement, and educational pursuits have prepared me to achieve my goals.
Richard (Dunk) Matthews II Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center (ATC) in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology.
I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. My deep curiosity even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for skilled trades. I find it intriguing to understand how complex systems operate. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights. My ultimate ambition is to specialize in engine building and tuning, mastering the intricate mechanics that drive high-performance vehicles.
I have been actively involved in various leadership roles, including my school’s basketball team. For the last three years, I’ve played on the varsity basketball team and served as the captain of the JV team last year. In addition to sports, I’ve been involved in Boy Scouts, where I earned the Arrow of Light and learned the importance of essential values like responsibility, respect, teamwork, always doing my best and serving others.
Throughout my high school career, I have developed leadership skills that will be incredibly valuable as I pursue a career in automotive technology. On the basketball court I learned how to lead a team, being respectful, supporting my teammates, and ensuring we worked together to achieve our goals. I was able to unite the team and encourage players to work effectively together in winning. We did not make it to the playoffs, but I would not change anything. I learned so many lessons. I received confirmation that I am an effective leader due to the bond created.
Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. This year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA providing aid to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. I also went on a medical mission trip for a week in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to serve others. My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. It will also allow me to help purchase and fix a van for our church youth group
Looking ahead, my career goals are clear. I aim to begin my journey in the automotive field by working at an auto shop or dealership. My ultimate ambition is to specialize in engine building and tuning, mastering the intricate mechanics that drive high-performance vehicles. In conclusion, my leadership roles, community involvement, and educational pursuits have prepared me to achieve my goals. Whether guiding my basketball team to victory, mentoring my brothers, or pursuing my passion for cars, I am committed to continuous growth and making a meaningful impact in every situation.
Marvin Bozarth Memorial Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center (ATC) in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology.
I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights. My ultimate ambition is to specialize in engine building and tuning, mastering the intricate mechanics that drive high-performance vehicles. Over time, I plan to establish my own performance shop in my hometown, filling a gap in the local car enthusiasts spirt and giving back to the community that shaped me.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for skilled trades. I find it intriguing to understand how complex systems operate.
Throughout my high school career, I have developed leadership skills that will be incredibly valuable as I pursue a career in automotive technology. On the basketball court I learned how to lead a team, being respectful, supporting my teammates, and ensuring we worked together to achieve our goals. I was able to unite the team and encourage players to work effectively together in winning. We did not make it to the playoffs, but I would not change anything. I learned so many lessons. I received confirmation that I am an effective leader due to the bond created.
In basketball, I also learned how to make quick, informed decisions under pressure. On the court, I was constantly assessing the situation and making decisions that would benefit the team. Decision-making is important in the automotive field, whether I am diagnosing a problem with a vehicle or determining how to service the vehicle. Strong decision-making
skills help ensure that I complete tasks efficiently, minimize errors and improve the quality of my work.
My parents are my biggest inspiration. My drive, motivation and hard work are values that I have learned from them. They have always encouraged me to follow my passions, and I believe that with hard work and dedication, I can achieve anything. They have given me the opportunity to explore and gain exposure to assist me in figuring out what I wanted to do as my profession. Their guidance, my dedication, combined with my faith in God, give me the strength to focus on my goals. I know that pursuing a trade is the right path for me. Building things with my hands and working on vehicles is what I love. I’m confident that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
CJM Rampelt Family Legacy Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology. I am the oldest son in my family. I have a great relationship with my two younger brothers and have strived to be a role model for them.
I have been actively involved in various leadership roles, including my school’s basketball team. For the last three years, I’ve played on the varsity basketball team and served as the captain of the JV team last year. In addition to sports, I’ve been involved in Boy Scouts, where I earned the Arrow of Light and learned the importance of essential values like responsibility, respect, teamwork, always doing my best and serving others.
One global issue that really matters to me is food insecurity. Even though the world makes enough food for everyone, millions of people still go hungry. This problem doesn’t just happen in poor countries, it happens in our own towns, where families struggle to afford meals. I believe everyone should have access to healthy food, and I want to be part of the solution.
I started helping through the Boy Scouts. We ran food drives, gathered donations, and worked at food pantries. We packed and delivered bags of groceries to families. That experience showed me that hunger can affect anyone and made me want to keep helping.
In high school, I had the chance to travel to the Dominican Republic. While there, I helped give out food and medical supplies. I had the opportunity to assist medical personnel in providing medical care. Seeing people living with so little made me realize how lucky I am and how important it is to help others. That trip taught me that hunger and health are closely connected.
My parents are my biggest inspiration. My drive, motivation and hard work are values that I have learned from them. They have always encouraged me to follow my passions, and I believe that with hard work and dedication, I can achieve anything. My family used all of our savings to open a mental health clinic to support teens in our area. We saw that many young people were struggling with anxiety, depression, and other psychosocial problems, including food insecurities and financial barriers. In the city where we opened our mental health clinic there were many teens who died by suicide. We wanted to create a safe place where teens could talk and get the help they need. My parents have and continue to give so much of themselves physically, mentally and financially to be a blessing to our community.
In the future, I plan to go to trade school to become a master technician. I love working on cars, especially making them faster and more powerful. One day, I want to open my own high-performance auto shop. But I don’t just want to fix cars, I want to use my shop to help others. I’d like to offer free or low-cost services to people who can’t afford repairs and teach young people who are interested in learning the trade.
No matter what career you choose, I believe you can make a difference. I want to use what I’m good at to give back to my community and help solve problems like food insecurity and mental health struggles. Helping others has always been a big part of who I am, and I plan to keep doing that as I grow and learn.
Sean Flynn Memorial Scholarship
One Saturday afternoon, my two younger brothers and I decided we were going to build a car. Not a toy car, not a model, but a real, rideable car made from whatever we could find in the garage. None of us had any real experience building anything like that, but we figured we could at least make something that moved. We gathered a pile of random junk: two slightly bent bike wheels, part of an old scooter, a plastic lawn chair, a cooler, and a full roll of duct tape from a drawer in the tool area. I ended up leading the project because I was the oldest, and my brothers just assumed I knew what I was doing, which I definitely didn’t.
It took us a couple of hours to get everything put together. It didn’t really look like a car, more like a strange rolling contraption, but it kind of held its shape. We attached the lawn chair to a skateboard deck, used some metal rods from a broken table to mount the wheels, and covered everything with duct tape. One of my brothers brought out a leaf blower and suggested using it to make the car faster, but we decided not to try that idea. When we thought it was ready, we pushed our creation to the top of the driveway and got into position to test it out, all three of us filled with excitement.
It moved a little, rolling about six or seven feet before turning sharply and tipping over into the recycling bin. One brother landed in the grass and stayed there for a moment, while the other ended up with a small scrape on his elbow from trying to catch himself. None of us got hurt, and we were laughing too hard to really care about how badly it crashed. One of the wheels popped off completely, and the whole thing leaned to one side like it had just given up entirely. The whole scene felt like something out of a cartoon.
After that, we realized there wasn’t much else we could do to fix it. We spent the rest of the afternoon riding our bikes and talking about what we could have done differently to make it better. The car sat at the side of the driveway for a couple of days before we finally took it apart and put the pieces back. Even though the car didn’t work the way we hoped, it was one of the best and funniest afternoons we’d had in a long time.
Be Skilled Find Success Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center (ATC) in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology.
I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights. My ultimate ambition is to specialize in engine building and tuning, mastering the intricate mechanics that drive high-performance vehicles. Over time, I plan to establish my own performance shop in my hometown, filling a gap in the local car enthusiasts spirt and giving back to the community that shaped me.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for skilled trades. I find it intriguing to understand how complex systems operate.
I chose ATC as my trade school because of their reputation in our community. They are viewed as a trade school that supports, empowers and provides an exceptional education to prepare students for success. ATC is also located close to my home, so I can commute. High performance technology is also a concentration that many trade schools do not offer. I am blessed to have a school close to home that offers what I want to study.
My parents are my biggest inspiration. My drive, motivation and hard work are values that I have learned from them. They have always encouraged me to follow my passions, and I believe that with hard work and dedication, I can achieve anything. They have given me the opportunity to explore and gain exposure to assist me in figuring out what I wanted to do as my profession. Their guidance, my dedication, combined with my faith in God, give me the strength to focus on my goals. I know that pursuing a trade is the right path for me. Building things with my hands and working on vehicles is what I love. I’m confident that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
Ben Bonner Memorial Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology.
I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for skilled trades. I find it intriguing to understand how complex systems operate.
I have been actively involved in various leadership roles, including my high school’s basketball team. For the last three years, I’ve played on the varsity basketball team and served as the captain of the JV team last year. In addition to sports, I’ve been involved in Boy Scouts, where I earned the Arrow of Light and learned the importance of essential values like responsibility, respect, teamwork, always doing my best and serving others.
Throughout my high school career, I have developed leadership skills that will be incredibly valuable as I pursue a career in automotive technology. On the basketball court I learned how to lead a team, being respectful, supporting my teammates, and ensuring we worked together to achieve our goals. I was able to unite the team and encourage players to work effectively with one another. My leadership skills, combined with my passion of working with my hands, make me a strong candidate for success in the automotive industry.
Basketball has taught me to make decisions under pressure. On the court, I constantly assess the situation around me and make decisions that benefit our team. Decision-making is important in the automotive field, whether I am diagnosing a problem with a vehicle and determining how to service the vehicle. Strong decision-making skills help ensure that I complete tasks efficiently, minimize errors and improve work quality. I’m eager to apply the lessons I’ve learned through sports and community involvement in my future career.
Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. This year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA providing aid to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. I also went on a medical mission trip for a week in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to serve others.
My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. It will also allow me to help purchase and fix a van for our church youth group. Currently, we do not have transportation in order for our youth ministry to grow. God is the center of my life and will lead me to other service opportunities.
Gregory Chase Carter Memorial Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology. I am the oldest son in my family. I have a great relationship with my two younger brothers and have strived to be a role model for them.
Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. This year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA providing aid to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. While on the streets of Kensington I witnessed an individual overdose. I informed my mother and other nurses who administered narcan. After several administrations the individual awoke in desperation. This experience was both frightening and eye opening. I saw first-hand how fragile life is. I also saw how God puts people on earth to help those in vulnerable situations.
I attended a weeklong medical mission trip in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. I was able to immerse myself in the Dominican culture. This was deeply important to me since my maternal grandfather is from the Dominican Republic. I had the opportunity to assist the Pastor, work in the pharmacy and assisted the nurses and medical providers. I enjoyed the home visits with the Pastor the most. I was able to connect with the community and share the gospel.
Through the organizations that I participate in at my High School, Black Student Union, Multicultural Club and the Basketball team. I have participated in the Polar Plunge to raise money for The Special Olympics. It was rewarding for me to see our school come together to help children who have special needs.
These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to serve others. My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. It will also allow me to help purchase and fix a van for our church youth group. Currently, we do not have transportation but know this is something that is needed. I am a firm believer that every kind gesture whether big or small has a huge impact on society.
Charles Reid Imperial Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology.
I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together better than before. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for skilled trades.
I have been actively involved in various leadership roles, including my school’s basketball team. For the last three years, I’ve played on the varsity basketball team and last year I served as the captain of the JV team. In addition to sports, I’ve been involved in Boy Scouts, where I earned the Arrow of Light and learned the importance of essential values like responsibility, respect, teamwork, "do your best" and serving others.
Throughout my high school career, I have developed leadership skills that will be incredibly valuable as I pursue a career in automotive technology. On the basketball court I learned how to lead a team, being respectful, supporting my teammates, and ensuring we worked together to achieve our goals. I was able to unite the team and encourage players to work effectively. We did not make it to the playoffs, but I would not change anything. I learned so many lessons. I received confirmation that I am an effective leader due to the bond created. These skills will assist me when working with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
In basketball, I also learned how to make quick, informed decisions under pressure. On the court, I was constantly assessing the situation and making decisions that would benefit the team. Decision-making is important in the automotive field, whether I am diagnosing a problem with a vehicle and determining how to service the vehicle. Strong decision-making skills help ensure that I complete tasks efficiently, minimize errors and improve the quality of my work.
Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. This year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA providing aid to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. I also went on a medical mission trip for a week in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to serve others. My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. It will also allow me to help purchase and fix a van for our church youth group. Currently, we do not have transportation but know this is something that is needed. It will allow us to serve within our community and beyond.
Thomas Mashig Foundation Trade School Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology. I am the oldest son in my family. I have a great relationship with my two younger brothers and have strived to be a role model for them.
I have been fascinated in building things since I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together better than before. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for skilled trades.
I have been actively involved in various leadership roles, including my school’s basketball team. For the last three years, I’ve played on the varsity basketball team and served as the captain of the JV team last year. In addition to sports, I’ve been involved in Boy Scouts, where I earned the Arrow of Light and learned the importance of essential values like responsibility, respect, teamwork, always doing my best and serving others.
Throughout my high school career, I have developed leadership skills that will be incredibly valuable as I pursue a career in automotive technology. On the basketball court I learned how to lead a team, being respectful, supporting my teammates, and ensuring we worked together to achieve our goals. I was able to unite the team and encourage players to work effectively together. We did not make it to the playoffs, but I would not change anything. I learned so many lessons.
I am an active member of the Black Student Union and the Multicultural Organization where I have learned to advocate, accept and respect others from different backgrounds. These skills are transferable to the automotive field, where teamwork and collaboration are vital for success.
Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. This year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA providing aid to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. I also went on a medical mission trip for a week in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to serve others. My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. It will also allow me to help purchase and fix a van for our church youth group. Currently, we do not have transportation, but I know this is something that is needed.
I believe the strong leadership skills, combined with my passion of working with my hands, make me a strong candidate for success in the automotive industry. I’m eager to apply the lessons I’ve learned through sports and community involvement in my future career.
Joe Ford Trade Scholarship
1. My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology.
2. I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together better than before. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for skilled trades. I find it intriguing to understand how complex systems operate.
3. I have been actively involved in various leadership roles, including my school’s basketball team. For the last three years, I’ve played on the varsity basketball team and served as the captain of the JV team last year. In addition to sports, I’ve been involved in Boy Scouts, where I earned the Arrow of Light and learned the importance of essential values like responsibility, respect, teamwork, always doing my best and serving others.
Throughout my high school career, I have developed leadership skills that will be incredibly valuable as I pursue a career in automotive technology. On the basketball court I learned how to lead a team, being respectful, supporting my teammates, and ensuring we worked together to achieve our goals. I was able to unite the team and encourage players to work effectively together in winning. We did not make it to the playoffs, but I would not change anything. I learned so many lessons. I received confirmation that I am an effective leader due to the bond created.
In basketball, I also learned how to make quick, informed decisions under pressure. On the court, I was constantly assessing the situation and making decisions that would benefit the team. Decision-making is important in the automotive field, whether I am diagnosing a problem with a vehicle and determining how to service the vehicle. Strong decision-making skills help ensure that I complete tasks efficiently, minimize errors and improve the quality of my work.
My love of cars has united me with family and friends who have the same passion for automotive technology. When I am not on the basketball court you will find me working on my personal car. Recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights.
4. I have shadowed several mechanics over the last year to gain exposure to different concentrations in automotive technology. I knew at the end of Junior year in Hight School that I wanted to attend Automotive Training Center (ATC) for automotive and high-performance technology. I attended ADVANTAGE “U” a series of pre-start mechanical preparatory classes allowing me to gain mechanical skills required to be successful in their program. The classes provided education on cutting, welding, power and hand tools, electrical A/C-D/C Voltage, general automotive maintenance, precision tools, steering and suspension shop equipment and MOPAR CAP Local Certification prerequisites.
I applied for the program and have completed all necessary steps to start school at the Automotive Training Center in Exton, Pa following graduation on June 30, 2025.
5. An adult would describe me as a respectful, God fearing, caring, hardworking and a driven individual. They would also report that I am a person who sets goals and puts in hard work to accomplish them.
Rod Tucci Memorial Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology. I am the oldest son in my family. I have a great relationship with my two younger brothers and have strived to be a role model for them.
I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together better than before. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for automotive technology. I find it intriguing to understand how complex systems operate.
I have been blessed to have support from my parents throughout my life. My drive, motivation and hard work are values that I have learned from parents. They have always encouraged me to follow my passions, and I believe that with hard work and dedication, I can achieve anything. They have given me the opportunity to explore and gain exposure to assist me in figuring out what I wanted to do as my career. Their guidance, my dedication, combined with my faith in God, give me the strength to focus on my goals. I know that pursuing a trade is the right path for me. Building things with my hands and working on vehicles is what I love. I’m confident that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. This year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA providing aid to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. I also went on a medical mission trip for a week in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to serve others. My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. It will also allow me to help purchase and fix a van for our church youth group. Currently, we do not have transportation but know this is something that is needed. Success to me is being able to continue to serve, continuing to learn and gain experience in automotive technology, providing for my family, purchasing a home and owning my own business in the future.
Brayden Blankley Memorial Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology. I am the oldest son in my family. I have a great relationship with my two younger brothers and have strived to be a role model for them.
I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together better than before. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for automotive technology. I find it intriguing to understand how complex systems operate.
I have been blessed to have support from my parents throughout my life. My drive, motivation and hard work are values that I have learned from parents. They have always encouraged me to follow my passions, and I believe that with hard work and dedication, I can achieve anything. They have given me the opportunity to explore and gain exposure to assist me in figuring out what I wanted to do as my career. Their guidance, my dedication, combined with my faith in God, give me the strength to focus on my goals. I know that pursuing a trade is the right path for me. Building things with my hands and working on vehicles is what I love. I’m confident that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. This year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA providing aid to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. I also went on a medical mission trip for a week in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to serve others. My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. It will also allow me to help purchase and fix a van for our church youth group. Currently, we do not have transportation but know this is something that is needed. Success to me is being able to continue to serve, continuing to learn and gain experience in automotive technology, providing for my family, purchasing a home and owning my own business in the future.
Tim Williams Automotive Student Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology. I am the oldest son in my family. I have a great relationship with my two younger brothers and have strived to be a role model for them. I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together better than before. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights. I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for automotive technology. I find it intriguing to understand how complex systems operate.
Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. This year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA providing aid to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. I also went on a medical mission trip for a week in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to serve others. My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. It will also allow me to help purchase and fix a van for our church youth group. Currently, we do not have transportation but know this is something that is needed. Success to me is being able to continue to serve, continuing to learn and gain experience in automotive technology, providing for my family, purchasing a home and owning my own business in the future.
Russell Koci Skilled Trade Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology. I am the oldest son in my family. I have a great relationship with my two younger brothers and have strived to be a role model for them.
I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together better than before. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for
Throughout my life my parents have work hard to provide for me and my brothers. My drive, motivation and hard work are values that I have learned from them. They have always encouraged me to follow my passions, and I believe that with hard work and dedication, I can achieve anything. They have given me the opportunity to explore and gain exposure to assist me in figuring out what I wanted to do as my profession. Their guidance, my dedication, combined with my faith in God, give me the strength to focus on my goals. I know that pursuing a trade is the right path for me. Building things with my hands and working on vehicles is what I love. I’m confident that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
A successful life as a master mechanic would include me working full time and continue learning. My goal is to one day be an entrepreneur and own my own business. I would like to own my home and be able to care for my family. True success will allow me to serve. Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. This year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA providing aid to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. I also went on a medical mission trip for a week in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to serve others. My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to continue my community service. I would like to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. My career will also allow me to help purchase and fix a van for our church youth group. Currently, we do not have transportation but know this is something that is needed.
Bob Gana Memorial Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology. I am the oldest son in my family. I have a great relationship with my two younger brothers and have strived to be a role model for them.
I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together better than before. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for
Throughout my life my parents have work hard to provide for me and my brothers. My drive, motivation and hard work are values that I have learned from them. They have always encouraged me to follow my passions, and I believe that with hard work and dedication, I can achieve anything. They have given me the opportunity to explore and gain exposure to assist me in figuring out what I wanted to do as my profession. Their guidance, my dedication, combined with my faith in God, give me the strength to focus on my goals. I know that pursuing a trade is the right path for me. Building things with my hands and working on vehicles is what I love. I’m confident that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. This year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA providing aid to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. I also went on a medical mission trip for a week in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to serve others. My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. It will also allow me to help purchase and fix a van for our church youth group. Currently, we do not have transportation but know this is something that is needed. I would also want to empower others in following their dreams and sharing the importance of trade in society through mentorship.
Marcus Matias Scholarship
I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together better than before. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for skilled trades. I find it intriguing to understand how complex systems operate.
Who has influenced you the most to pursue this path?
This question is difficult because so many people have shaped my life, but I will have to pick both of my parents. My drive, motivation and hard work are values that I have learned from them. They have always encouraged me to follow my passions, and I believe that with hard work and dedication, I can achieve anything. They have given me the opportunity to explore and gain exposure to assist me in figuring out what I wanted to do as my profession. Their guidance, my dedication, combined with my faith in God, give me the strength to focus on my goals. I know that pursuing a trade is the right path for me. Building things with my hands and working on vehicles is what I love. I’m confident that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. This year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA providing aid to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. I also went on a medical mission trip for a week in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to serve others. My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. It will also allow me to help purchase and fix a van for our church youth group. Currently, we do not have transportation but know this is something that is needed. I would also want to empower others in following their dreams and sharing the importance of trade in society through mentorship.
WC&EJ Thornton Tools of the Trade Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology. I am the oldest son in my family. I have a great relationship with my two younger brothers and have strived to be a role model for them.
I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together better than before. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for skilled trades. I find it intriguing to understand how complex systems operate.
My parents have inspired and supported me throughout my life. I have watched them accomplish their goals and work hard to provide for me and my brothers. My drive, motivation and hard work are values that I have learned from them. They have always encouraged me to follow my passions, and I believe that with hard work and dedication, I can achieve anything. They have given me the opportunity to explore and gain exposure to assist me in figuring out what I wanted to do as my profession. My parent's guidance, my dedication, combined with my faith in God, give me the strength to focus on my goals. I know that pursuing automotive and high-performance technology is the right path for me. Building things with my hands and working on vehicles is what I love. I’m confident that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. This year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA providing aid to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. I also went on a medical mission trip for a week in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to serve others. My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. It will also allow me to help purchase and fix a van for our church youth group. Currently, we do not have transportation but know this is something that is needed. I would also want to empower others in following their dreams and sharing the importance of trade in society through mentorship.
Chip Miller Memorial Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center in Exton, beginning in June 2025, where I will focus on automotive and high-performance technology. I am the oldest son in my family. I have a great relationship with my two younger brothers and have strived to be a role model for them.
I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together better than before. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot at the Chester County Airport. I learned about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics reinforcing my admiration for skilled trades. I find it intriguing to understand how complex systems operate.
Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. This year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA providing aid to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. I also went on a medical mission trip for a week in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. On the mission trip I assisted the medical team and the pastoral team. These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to serve others.
My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. It will also allow me to help purchase and fix a van for our church youth group. Currently, we do not have transportation but know this is something that is needed. I would also want to empower others in following their dreams and sharing the importance of trade in society through mentorship.
John Geremia Memorial Industrial Trades Scholarship
My name is Andre Bennett, and I am a 12th-grade student at Collegium Charter School in Exton, Pennsylvania. I have been accepted to the Automotive Training Center beginning in June 2025, for automotive and high-performance technology. I am the oldest son in my family. I have a great relationship with my two younger brothers and have strived to be a role model for them.
I have been actively involved in various leadership roles, including my school’s basketball team. For the last three years, I’ve played on the varsity basketball team and served as the captain of the JV team last year. In addition to sports, I’ve been involved in Boy Scouts, where I earned the Arrow of Light and learned the importance of essential values like responsibility, respect, teamwork, always doing my best and serving others.
I am an active member of the Ski Club, Black Student Union and the Multicultural Organization where I have learned to advocate, accept and respect others from different cultures and backgrounds. Demonstrating respect is critical when working with others. These skills are transferable to the automotive field, where teamwork and collaboration are vital for success. When working on a car each person’s contribution is necessary for completing the job correctly and safely, much like a basketball team working together to achieve a win.
On the basketball court I learned how to lead a team by empowering, respecting, supporting my teammates, and ensuring we worked together to achieve our goals. I was able to unite our team and encourage players to work effectively together. We did not make it to the playoffs, but I would not change anything. I learned so many lessons and received confirmation that I am an effective leader due to the bond created.
I learned how to make quick decisions under pressure. On the court, I was constantly assessing the situation and making decisions that would benefit the team. Decision-making is important in the automotive field, whether I am diagnosing a problem with a vehicle and determining how to service the vehicle. Strong decision-making skills help ensure that I complete tasks efficiently, minimize errors and provide quality work.
I believe the strong leadership skills, combined with my passion of working with my hands, make me a strong candidate for success in the automotive industry. I’m eager to apply the lessons I’ve learned through sports and community involvement in my future career.
Dustan Biegler Memorial Scholarship
I’ve been fascinated by building things for as long as I can remember. As a child, I spent hours constructing intricate Lego structures, immersed in the process of bringing an idea to life with my hands. As I grew, so did my passion and skill level. I transitioned from Legos to RC cars, carefully assembling each piece, paying attention to every detail. When I got my driver’s license I began fixing my own car. I found joy in diagnosing problems, taking things apart, and putting them back together better than before. Most recently I changed my air intake, exhaust, coil overs, headlights and rear lights.
I have always been driven by a deep curiosity about how things work. My interest in mechanics even extended to aviation, where I pursued training as a student pilot. Learning about aircraft structures, engines, safety and aerodynamics only reinforced my admiration for skilled trades. I find it intriguing to understand how complex systems operate.
Deciding on one individual who has influenced me the most, is difficult for me. My parents have played a significant role in shaping my pursuit in automotive and high-performance technology. My drive, motivation and hard work are values that I have learned from them. They have always encouraged me to follow my passions, and I believe that with hard work and dedication, I can achieve anything. They have given me the opportunity to explore and gain exposure to assist me in figuring out what I wanted to do as my career. Their guidance, my dedication, combined with my faith in God, give me the strength to focus on my goals. I know that pursuing a trade is the right path for me. Building things with my hands and working on vehicles is what I love. I’m confident that I can achieve anything I set my mind to.
Giving back to the community has always been important to me and my family. This year, I had the opportunity to complete community service with my parents. I volunteered with The Table Ministries lead by Pastor Ben in Kensington, PA. We provided food, prayer and supplies donated to individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction. I also went on a medical mission trip, for a week, in the Dominican Republic with Solid Rock International. These experiences showed me how much of an impact one person can have and reinforced that God gives each of us unique skills to be used to serve others. My career in automotive and high-performance technology will allow me to partner with organizations to provide car repair assistance to individuals in need. It will also allow me to help purchase a van for my church youth group. I will be able to assist with ongoing auto repair and maintenance. Currently, we do not have reliable transportation but know this is something that is needed as the group grows to get to community events.