I am pursuing an education in Electrical Technology to be combined with my certification in Plumbing Heating and Air (PHAC) which I earned during the 2023-24 school year and my associates degree in Applied Technologies which I plan to receive in May 2025. My education will allow me to pursue a career in electricity with additional knowledge in PHAC. My goals include graduating from NCKTC in Beloit, Kansas with certifications in Electricity Plumbing Heating and Air with Associates Degrees in Applied Technology and Electrical Technology. Additionally, the hands-on training I receive from my mentors at Willow Springs Plumbing during my studies will be invaluable. It has been a blessing to be able to work with Donnie and Jordan’s crew and to learn from an expert electrician and HVAC specialist. I am so thankful for all the knowledge they have shared with me. Another goal is to start my career debt free. Receiving the Scott W Trades Memorial scholarship would help me met that goal. My focus could be on providing for my family, serving my community, and starting my business. A successful life would be one in which I could look back and see a life full of love, family, friends, and co-workers who have worked together to make the world a better place. I believe I will be successful because of my hard work and determination. I would do my best to make the family of Scott Van Antwerp proud by striving to do my best in all I do, giving back, and serve others. My dream is to someday own my own business. I see myself being able to support my future family while be active in my community. I see myself continuing to do what I have been taught by my family, which is always do the next the right thing and always look out for others while looking to God for guidance and always being grateful. Serving others is what we’re called to do and as an Eagle Scout I strive to do this daily. Someday I hope to be mentor and give back all the knowledge and assistance that others have so graciously shared with me. I am thankful for those who have chosen to take a chance on me by believing in me and want extend that kindness to others. It is my passion for helping others that motivates me to pursue a career in the trades industry and I believe a career in the trades field will allow me to meet my goals and obtain my dreams. I am thankful for those who have chosen to take a chance on me and believe in me and want extend that kindness to others. Thank you for the opportunity to apply for the Scott W. Trades Memorial Scholarship.

I'm pursuing a career in Electrical Technology combined with my certification in Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning (PHAC). I am interested in electricity as well as PHAC as I can use these skills to solve many problems families have in their homes and businesses. I can use my gift of outside the box thinking to serve others, making their lives better. Everyone needs help at one point with their plumbing, heating and air and electrical needs. There are fewer and fewer qualified technicians available. I want to help fill that need while making a living to support my future family, serving my community, and eventually opening my own business. My knowledge in all three areas will make me a one shop stop and more enticing to the consumer. When faced with a challenge I strive to find a solution. Here are some examples of my outside the box thinking. I helped my brother to design and create an entry for the TI Coding Contest. We were Finalist 2018 & Most Practical Solution Winner– Team Going for Break https://education.ti.com/en/promotion/codescontesIt/2018#lightbox=codesc ontest-going-for-brake Being part of several dance committees in high school to plan and decorate for 3 proms and 2 other dances. Many young men don’t voluntarily step up for these events. I even came up with the theme for my senior Prom based on the Princess Bride Movie “An Inconceivable Prom” Convincing my parents through a friendly debate that homeschooling was the option for me and I could get their goals met. You see, I wasn’t looking for an easy way out and met all their goals for my education, including the one about learning to dance. I found Cape Ballroom went there every Friday night from before my freshman year to before I left for Technical College in Beloit KS, I took lessons my first two years on Friday nights and some private classes and taught ballroom dancing my Junior and Senior year. Now I help teach high school kids to dance at my church in Kansas. My mom was so proud of how I met her goal while exceeded her expectations I often create 3-D printer items to solve a problem. I uploaded pictures of some things I have made have made. I have created a clip for use in Frisbee golf, a clip to hold my speaker in my truck, stands for my phone, headphones, and models My plan it to complete my education, continue my mentoring with Willow Springs Services in Beloit Kansas through the Spring of 2026. I plan to continue learning from professionals who have more experience than myself and eventually start my own business. I am currently finishing my second year of my plan. This summer I plan to return home and work for a different company so I have experience working in Missouri as well as in Kansas. I plan to return to Kansas for school in August and continue working at Willow Springs as well as attending classes. My plan is to continue to grown and develop as a person and in the field of Electrical Technology so I can serve others. Eventually I want to own my own business and serve my community. I believe if you called any adult in my life, they would tell you that I am dependable, honest, hardworking and unlike many young people they know today. They would say I always do my best and when I fail at something or don’t make the mark, I start again learning from that past lesson. I can't stop as I am determined to be the best. Sometimes I get tired but I continue to do the next right thing. They would tell you I keep trying and figure out how I can improve. You could call a scoutmaster, those that work at the Food Pantry, my neighbors who I have helped, my boss, family friends, pastors, people from Cape Ballroom where I have learned and taught dance, Kid’s in Christian Karate (KICK) instructors, and the list goes on. They would all say I am an exceptional individual who doesn’t think he is better than others but just strives to do his best and cares for others. They would say I put others needs ahead of my own. I graduated from Most Sacred Heart Academy in Whitewater, MO, our family homeschool in May 2023. During the 2023-24 school year I studied PHAC at North Central Kansas Technical College in Beloit, KS. I obtained my certification in May and continued in the Electrical Technology Program and will graduate with my associates degree in Applied Technology in May 2025. I plan to continue at FHTNC to obtain my associates degree in Electrical Technology in May 2026. When completed I will focus on Plumbing, Heating/Air, and Electricity, eventually owning my own business.

I am from a family of hard workers who believe you are responsible for your success and how you treat others matters. My family homeschooled and it served me well. We have been able to travel, to help family and friends, and be active in our community while continuing to focus on my education. I have met lifelong friends and learned to interact with individuals ages 0 to 99. The life skills I have learned, the education I have obtained, and normal extracurricular activities I have been involved with include; Boy Scouts, karate, robotics, ballroom dancing, volunteering, church youth groups, homeschool groups, & prom and dance committees will serve me well in the future. They have given me opportunities to serve and help other. I will take my passion for helping others into my career. Taking a nontraditional path has shown me there are many ways to excellence. Traditional high school and college are not for everyone. I am thankful that I was able to address the concerns of my parents as they had planned to send me to a traditional high school. They consented to give homeschooling high school a try, having no idea that soon everyone would be out of the classroom due to COVID-19. I am grateful that my education never had to paused. My outside the box thinking drives me to find solutions to problems and concerns. I believe it will serve me well in the skilled trade industry. I believe my passion for helping others and living life to the fullest is why a career in the trades is right for me. I am seeking to complete my second year in Electrical Technology Fort Hays Tech North Central (FHTNC) in Beloit, Kansas. When completed with that year my education would be well rounded with a certificate in PHVAC, an Associate Degree in Building Construction Technology and all knowledge necessary for my Journeyman making me very qualified to help other. The training I receive at NCKTC and FHTNC will make me knowledgeable in the construction trades. I will be grateful for on the job/hands on training I received from my mentors at Willow Springs Inc. during my studies and should be prepared for a successful career. It is my desire to own my own business someday and serve other while taking my passion for helping others with me in everything I do. I see myself being able to support my future family while be active in my community. I see myself continuing to do what I have been taught by my family, which is always do the next the right thing and always look out for others. Serving others is what we all are called to do and as an Eagle Scout I strive to do this daily. Someday I hope to mentor someone like myself. I want to give back all the knowledge and assistance that others have so graciously shared with me. It is my passion for helping others motivates me to pursue a career in the trades industry and I believe a career in the trades field will allow me to meet this goal. I am thankful for those who have chosen to take a chance on me and believe in me and want extend that kindness to others. Thank you for considering me for the Thomas Mashig Foundation scholarship. Should I be chosen for this scholarship I will do my best to honor Mr. Mashig’s memory by serving others and always lending a hand whenever possible. I am thankful for this opportunity.

My name is Colby Bunger. I am pursuing a career in Building Construction Technology which combines my certification in Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) with Electrical Technology. I would like to continue my education with a second year of Electrical Technology at FHTNC in Beloit Kansas. One might wonder how a young man from Missouri would choose to pursue a career in construction and how I ended up at FHTNC and why this trade is my passion. Being the driving of our FIRST Tech Challenge Robotic Team, Middle Earth Mechanics, for two years confirmed that a career in the trades would be a good fit for me. I am a hands-on type of person who doesn’t always choose the traditional route. I enjoyed job shadowing individuals in HVAC and Electricity. One of the individuals I shadowed happened to be my robotic coach, he encouraged me to find a technical college that had Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning. I found NCKTC, which happens to be in my parents and grandparents’ hometown. I am able to live at my grandfather’s house while studying in Beloit, Kansas helping me save money and hopefully graduate debt free. NCKCN has a program which allows me to combine plumbing and electricity with my HVAC certification to be able to deliver a full package to my customers. Combined with the mentorship I am receiving I know I will have the knowledge to help others. As an Eagle Scout who thinks outside the box, I want to ensure my future is bright by choosing a career path that is in demand, something I enjoy, and am passionate about. Building Construction Technology fits with my love of problem solving and my desire to help others. In my life I have been blessed to have many people guide me including my parents, brothers, robotics coach, pastors, and even an electrician who has taken me under his wing. Volunteering numerous places has always been a part of my life. These places include Boy Scouts, food pantries, churches, youth groups, KICK Karate class, and even teaching ballroom dancing at Cape Ballroom. My outside the box thinking and desire to solve problems and help others leads me to believe I will be successful in my trade. Through my life I have learned to do the next right thing, help others as much as I can, and look to God for guidance all while being grateful. The Russell Koci Scholarship would be a gift to me. It would help me begin a successful life which would include starting my career debt free. My focus could be on providing for my family, serving my community, and starting my business. A successful life would be one in which I could look back and see a life full of love, family, friends, and co-workers who have worked together to make the world a better place. I believe I will be successful because of my hard work and determination. I would do my best to make Mr. Koci proud by striving to do my best in all I do, give back, and serve others. Thank you for this opportunity to apply for the Russell Koci Skilled Trade Scholarship.

My name is Colby Bunger. I'd like to complete my second year in Electrical Technology at Fort Hays Tech North Central. I’m the youngest son of hard-working parents, I believe it’s not what happens to you, but how you react that is important. I am the grandchild of two Air Force Veterans, I value our veterans and servicemen and know that I am free to pursue my dreams because of them. I'm an Eagle Scout who is proud to be an American. One might wonder how a young man from Missouri would choose to pursue a career in construction in Kansas and why the trades are my passion. Being the driver of our FIRST Tech Challenge Robotic Team, Middle Earth Mechanics, for two years confirmed that a career in the trades would be a good fit for me. I am a hands-on type of person who doesn’t always choose the traditional route. I found NCKTC which became FHTNC and happens to be in my parents hometown of Beloit, Kansas. I’m able to live at my grandfather’s house while studying. Hopefully when I have completed my education I will have knowledge of PHVAC & 2 years of Electrical Technology Training to be able to deliver a full package to my customers. Combined with the mentorship I am receiving I know I will have the skills needed to help others. As an Eagle Scout who thinks outside the box, I want to ensure my future is bright by choosing a career path that is in demand, something I enjoy, and am passionate about. Building Construction Technology fits with my love of problem-solving and my desire to help others. In my life, I have been blessed to have many people guide me including my parents, brothers, robotics coach, pastors, and even an electrician who has taken me under his wing. Volunteering in numerous places has always been a part of my life. These places include Boy Scouts, food pantries, churches, youth groups, KICK Karate class, and even teaching ballroom dancing at Cape Ballroom. My outside-the-box thinking and desire to solve problems and help others lead me to believe I will make a positive impact on the world. Throughout my life I have learned to do the next right thing, help others as much as I can, and look to God for guidance all while being grateful. The Building Construction Industry interests me as I believe it is a field in which I can be successful because of my hard work and determination. I value my home and want to help create a home for others so they can have a safe haven to escape from the world and focus on their family. I believe the skills I have learned throughout my life, my love for problem solving, and my outside-the-box thinking will make this an interesting and fulfilling career. The Grover Scholarship would allow me to finish my education for which I would be very grateful. Thank you for the opportunity to apply.

I am pursuing a career in Building Construction Technology which combines my certification in Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) with Electrical Technology for an Associate Degree then an additional year in Electricity from Fort Hays Tech North Central in Beloit Kansas. One might wonder how a young man from Missouri ended up at NCKTC and why this trade is my passion. Being the driving of our FIRST Tech Challenge Robotic Team for two years confirmed that a career in the trades might be for me. I am a hands-on type of person who doesn’t always choose the traditional route. After a friendly debate with my parents as to why I wanted to continue to be homeschooled through high school I spent 4 years proving to my parents that homeschooling was the right choice for me and that I could in fact meet all their educational goals while thinking outside the box. Job shadowing led me to HVAC. The individual I shadowed happened to be my robotic coach, he encouraged me to find a technical college that had PHAC. I found NCKTC, which happens to be in my parents and grandparent’s hometown. I am able to live at my grandfather’s house while studying in Beloit. I did some research on PHAC Careers and found that there are numerous opportunities in these areas as many of these tradesmen are close to retirement age. That makes this career path particularly enticing to me as I know I will have a job. Fortunately, the President and Owner of Willow Springs Inc decided to be my mentor. I am fortunate that he has chosen to share his knowledge with me. As someone who thinks outside the box, I want to ensure my future is bright by choosing a career path that is in demand, something I enjoy, and am passionate about Building Construction Technology fits with my love of problem solving and my desire to help others. I have always been the person to see a problem and find a solution. You see it took me a long time to learn how to focus. My brain raced and learning was not easy. When I was in 6th grade I was tested and found out I have gluten intolerance. Once I eliminated gluten from my diet, my ability to focus improved and I was able to succeed in school easier. My freshman year was when COVID-19 interrupted the world. In April of that year, my grandmother died and the day after her death my grandfather got hurt and was hospitalized for 56 days. In May we were finally able to travel to see him and spent 3 months there taking care of him. We moved him back to our house in August 2020 and his camper became my classroom and where my parents slept so my grandfather could have their room. Much time has been spent taking care of my grandparents. Through all this I have learned that the people in your life are what is important. In my life many hard things have happened, my mom being diagnosed with Breast Cancer, my dad being diagnosed with Factor V Leiden after blood clots, my whole family being diagnosed with Celiac disease or Gluten Intolerance, both grandmothers dying and my grandfather being hurt, through all of this I have learned to do the next right thing, help others as much as I can, and look to God for guidance all while being grateful. My chosen career will allow me to continue to think outside the box while helping those who need my services.

My name is Colby Bunger. I am pursuing a career in Building Construction Technology which combines my certification in Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) with Electrical Technology for an Associate Degree from North Central Kansas Technical College (NCKTC) in Beloit Kansas. I’m the youngest son of hard-working parents who believe it’s not what happens to you, but how you react that is important. I am the grandchild of two Air Force Veterans who value our veterans and servicemen and know that I am free to pursue my dreams because of them. As an Eagle Scout, I’m Proud to be an American. One might wonder how a young man from Missouri would choose to pursue a career in construction ending up at NCKTC and why this trade is my passion. Being the driver of our FIRST Tech Challenge Robotic Team, Middle Earth Mechanics, for two years confirmed that a career in the trades would be a good fit for me. I am a hands-on type of person who doesn’t always choose the traditional route. I enjoyed job shadowing individuals in HVAC and Electricity. One of the individuals I shadowed was my robotic coach, he encouraged me to find a technical college that had Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning. I found NCKTC, which happens to be in my parents and grandparents’ hometown. I’m able to live at my grandfather’s house while studying in Beloit, Kansas helping me save money and hopefully graduate debt-free. NCKCN has a program that allows me to combine plumbing and electricity with my HVAC certification to be able to deliver a full package to my customers. Combined with the mentorship I am receiving I know I will have the skills needed to help others. As an Eagle Scout who thinks outside the box, I want to ensure my future is bright by choosing a career path that is in demand, something I enjoy,, and am passionate about. Building Construction Technology fits with my love of problem-solving and my desire to help others. In my life, I have been blessed to have many people guide me including my parents, brothers, robotics coach, pastors, and even an electrician who has taken me under his wing. Volunteering in numerous places has always been a part of my life. These places include Boy Scouts, food pantries, churches, youth groups, KICK Karate class, and even teaching ballroom dancing at Cape Ballroom. My outside-the-box thinking and desire to solve problems and help others lead me to believe I will make a positive impact on the world. Throughout my life I have learned to do the next right thing, help others as much as I can, and look to God for guidance all while being grateful. The Building Construction Industry interests me as I believe it is a field in which I can be successful because of my hard work and determination. I value my home and want to help create a home for others so they can have a safe haven to escape from the world and focus on their family. I believe the skills I have learned throughout my life, my love for problem solving, and my outside-the-box thinking will make this an interesting and fulfilling career. Thank you for this opportunity to apply and be considered for Joshua's Remodeling Scholarship.

I am from a family of hard workers who believe you are responsible for your success and how you treat others matters. My family homeschooled and it served me well. We have been able to travel, to help family and friends, and be active in our community while continuing to focus on my education. I have met lifelong friends and learned to interact with individuals ages 0 to 99. The life skills I have learned, the education I have obtained, and normal extracurricular activities I have been involved with including Boy Scouts, karate, robotics, ballroom dancing, volunteering, church youth groups, homeschool groups, & prom and dance committees will serve me well in the future. They have given me opportunities to serve and help other. I will take my passion for helping others into the construction industry. . Taking a nontraditional path has shown me there are many ways to excellence. Traditional education is not for everyone. I am thankful that I was able to address the concerns of my parents as they had planned to send me to a traditional high school. They consented to give homeschooling high school a try, having no idea that soon everyone would be out of the classroom due to COVID-19. I am grateful that my education never had to paused. My outside the box thinking drives me to find solutions to problems and concerns. I believe it will serve me well in the skilled trade industry. I believe my passion for helping others and living life to the fullest is why a career in the trades is right for me. After my second year at North Central Kansas Technical College (NCKTC) in Beloit, Kansas I will have graduated with my Associates Degree in Building Construction Technology. I will have obtained the basis knowledge for a career in Electricity, Plumbing and HVAC. I am contemplating a third year at NCKTC to obtain my journeyman in electricity making me more qualified to help others. The training I receive at NCKTC will make me knowledgeable in the building construction industry. I will be grateful for on the job/hands on training I received from my mentors at Willow Springs Inc. during my studies and should be prepared for a successful career. I would like to own my own business someday and serve other while taking my passion for helping others with me in everything I do. I see myself being able to support my future family while be active in my community. I see myself continuing to do what I have been taught by my family, which is always do the next the right thing and always look out for others. Serving others is what we all are called to do and as an Eagle Scout I strive to do this daily. Someday I hope to mentor someone like myself. I want to give back all the knowledge and assistance that others have so graciously shared with me. It is my passion for helping others that motivates me to pursue a career in the trades industry and I believe a career in the trades field will allow me to meet my goals. In conclusion, you asked me what a home meant to me. To me a home is more than then its outward appearance. More than the wood and bricks that make the building, it is a place where you can learn, love and grow. A home is a safe haven when the world is harsh. It is the place where you can retreat with your family. It is filled with love and memories that last a lifetime.

I am from a family of hard workers who believe you are responsible for your success and how you treat others matters. My family homeschooled and it served me well. We have been able to travel, to help family and friends, and be active in our community while continuing to focus on my education. I have met lifelong friends and learned to interact with individuals ages 0 to 99. The life skills I have learned, the education I have obtained, and normal extracurricular activities I have been involved with include; Boy Scouts, karate, robotics, ballroom dancing, volunteering, church youth groups, homeschool groups, & prom and dance committees will serve me well in the future. They have given me opportunities to serve and help other. I will take my passion for helping others into my career. Taking a nontraditional path has shown me there are many ways to excellence. Traditional high school and college are not for everyone. I am thankful that I was able to address the concerns of my parents as they had planned to send me to a traditional high school. They consented to give homeschooling high school a try, having no idea that soon everyone would be out of the classroom due to COVID-19. I am grateful that my education never had to paused. My outside the box thinking drives me to find solutions to problems and concerns. I believe it will serve me well in the skilled trade industry. I believe my passion for helping others and living life to the fullest is why a career in the trades is right for me. After my second year at North Central Kansas Technical College (NCKTC) in Beloit, Kansas I will have graduated with my Associates Degree in Building Construction Technology. I will have obtained the basis knowledge for a career in Electricity, Plumbing and HVAC. I am contemplating a third year at NCKTC to obtain my journeyman in electricity making me more qualified to help others. The training I receive at NCKTC will make me knowledgeable in the building construction industry. I will be grateful for on the job/hands on training I received from my mentors at Willow Springs Inc. during my studies and should be prepared for a successful career. I would like to own my own business someday and serve other while taking my passion for helping others with me in everything I do. I see myself being able to support my future family while be active in my community. I see myself continuing to do what I have been taught by my family, which is always do the next the right thing and always look out for others. Serving others is what we all are called to do and as an Eagle Scout I strive to do this daily. Someday I hope to mentor someone like myself. I want to give back all the knowledge and assistance that others have so graciously shared with me. It is my passion for helping others motivates me to pursue a career in the trades industry and I believe a career in the trades field will allow me to meet this goal. I am thankful for those who have chosen to take a chance on me and believe in me and want extend that kindness to others. Thank you for considering me for the Thomas Mashig Foundation scholarship. Should I be chosen for this scholarship I will do my best to honor Mr. Mashig’s memory by serving others and always lending a hand whenever possible. I am thankful for this opportunity.

I am from a family of hard workers who believe you are responsible for your success and how you treat others matters. My family homeschooled and it served me well. We have been able to travel, to help family and friends, and be active in our community while continuing to focus on my education. I have met lifelong friends and learned to interact with individuals ages 0 to 99. The life skills I have learned, the education I have obtained, and normal extracurricular activities I have been involved with include; Boy Scouts, karate, robotics, ballroom dancing, volunteering, church youth groups, homeschool groups, & prom and dance committees will serve me well in the future as I take my passion for helping others into my career. Taking a nontraditional path has shown me there are many ways to excellence. Traditional high school and college are not for everyone. I am thankful that I was able to address the concerns of my parents as they had planned to send me to a traditional high school. They consented to give homeschooling high school a try, having no idea that soon everyone would be out of the classroom due to COVID-19. I am grateful that my education never had to paused. My outside the box thinking drives me to find solutions to problems and concerns. I believe it will serve me well in the skilled trade industry. I believe my passion for helping others and living life to the fullest is why a career in the trades is right for me. After my second year at North Central Kansas Technical College (NCKTC) in Beloit, Kansas I will have graduated with my Associates Degree in Building Construction Technology. I will have obtained the basis knowledge for a career in Electricity, Plumbing and HVAC. I am contemplating a third year at NCKTC to obtain my journeyman in electricity making me more qualified to help others. The training I receive at NCKTC will make me knowledgeable in the building construction industry. I will be grateful for on the job/hands on training I received from my mentors at Willow Springs Inc. during my studies and should be prepared for a successful career. I would like to own my own business someday and serve other while taking my passion for helping others with me in everything I do. I see myself being able to support my future family while be active in my community. I see myself continuing to do what I have been taught by my family, which is always do the next the right thing and always look out for others. Serving others is what we all are called to do and as an Eagle Scout I strive to do this daily. Someday I hope to mentor someone like myself. I want to give back all the knowledge and assistance that others have so graciously shared with me. It is my passion for helping others motivates me to pursue a career in the trades industry and I believe a career in the trades field will allow me to meet this goal. I am thankful for those who have chosen to take a chance on me and believe in me and want extend that kindness to others. Thank you for considering me for the Brattican Scholarship. I am thankful for this opportunity.

My name is Colby Bunger. I am pursuing a career in Building Construction Technology which combines my certification in Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) with Electrical Technology for an Associate Degree from North Central Kansas Technical College (NCKTC) in Beloit Kansas. One might wonder how a young man from Missouri would choose to pursue a career in construction and how I ended up at NCKTC and why this trade is my passion. Being the driving of our FIRST Tech Challenge Robotic Team, Middle Earth Mechanics, for two years confirmed that a career in the trades would be a good fit for me. I am a hands-on type of person who doesn’t always choose the traditional route. I enjoyed job shadowing individuals in HVAC and Electricity. One of the individuals I shadowed happened to be my robotic coach, he encouraged me to find a technical college that had Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning. I found NCKTC, which happens to be in my parents and grandparents’ hometown. I am able to live at my grandfather’s house while studying in Beloit, Kansas helping me save money and hopefully graduate debt free. NCKCN has a program which allows me to combine plumbing and electricity with my HVAC certification to be able to deliver a full package to my customers. Combined with the mentorship I am receiving I know I will have the knowledge to help others. As an Eagle Scout who thinks outside the box, I want to ensure my future is bright by choosing a career path that is in demand, something I enjoy, and am passionate about. Building Construction Technology fits with my love of problem solving and my desire to help others. In my life I have been blessed to have many people guide me including my parents, brothers, robotics coach, pastors, and even an electrician who has taken me under his wing. Volunteering numerous places has always been a part of my life. These places include Boy Scouts, food pantries, churches, youth groups, KICK Karate class, and even teaching ballroom dancing at Cape Ballroom. My outside the box thinking and desire to solve problems and help others leads me to believe I will be successful in my trade. Through my life I have learned to do the next right thing, help others as much as I can, and look to God for guidance all while being grateful. The Russell Koci Scholarship would be a gift to me. It would help me begin a successful life which would include starting my career debt free. My focus could be on providing for my family, serving my community, and starting my business. A successful life would be one in which I could look back and see a life full of love, family, friends, and co-workers who have worked together to make the world a better place. I believe I will be successful because of my hard work and determination. I would do my best to make Mr. Koci proud by striving to do my best in all I do, give back, and serve others. Thank you for this opportunity to apply for the Russell Koci Skilled Trade Scholarship.

My name is Colby Bunger. I am pursuing a career in Building Construction Technology which combines my certification in Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) with Electrical Technology for an Associate Degree from North Central Kansas Technical College (NCKTC) in Beloit Kansas. One might wonder how a young man from Missouri would choose to pursue a career in construction and how I ended up at NCKTC and why this trade is my passion. Being the driving of our FIRST Tech Challenge Robotic Team, Middle Earth Mechanics, for two years confirmed that a career in the trades would be a good fit for me. I am a hands-on type of person who doesn’t always choose the traditional route. I enjoyed job shadowing individuals in HVAC and Electricity. One of the individuals I shadowed happened to be my robotic coach, he encouraged me to find a technical college that had Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning. I found NCKTC, which happens to be in my parents and grandparents’ hometown. I am able to live at my grandfather’s house while studying in Beloit, Kansas helping me save money and hopefully graduate debt free. NCKCN has a program which allows me to combine plumbing and electricity with my HVAC certification to be able to deliver a full package to my customers. Combined with the mentorship I am receiving I know I will have the knowledge to help others. As an Eagle Scout who thinks outside the box, I want to ensure my future is bright by choosing a career path that is in demand, something I enjoy, and am passionate about. Building Construction Technology fits with my love of problem solving and my desire to help others. In my life I have been blessed to have many people guide me including my parents, brothers, robotics coach, pastors, and even an electrician who has taken me under his wing. Volunteering numerous places has always been a part of my life. These places include Boy Scouts, food pantries, churches, youth groups, KICK Karate class, and even teaching ballroom dancing at Cape Ballroom. Through my life I have learned to do the next right thing, help others as much as I can, and look to God for guidance all while being grateful. The Mike Wazocha Memorial Scholarship would be a gift to me. It help allow me to start my career debt free. My focus could be on providing for my family, serving my community, and starting my business. I would do my best to make the family and friends of Mike proud as I honor his memory by striving to do my best in all I do, give back, and serve others. Thank you for this opportunity to apply.

My name is Colby Bunger. I am pursuing a career in Building Construction Technology which combines my certification in Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) with Electrical Technology for an Associate Degree from North Central Kansas Technical College (NCKTC) in Beloit Kansas. One might wonder how a young man from Missouri ended up at NCKTC and why this trade is my passion. Being the driving of our FIRST Tech Challenge Robotic Team, Middle Earth Mechanics, for two years confirmed that a career in the trades would be a good fit for me. I am a hands-on type of person who doesn’t always choose the traditional route. I enjoyed job shadowing individuals in HVAC and Electricity. One of the individuals I shadowed happened to be my robotic coach, he encouraged me to find a technical college that had Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning. I found NCKTC, which happens to be in my parents and grandparents’ hometown. I am able to live at my grandfather’s house while studying in Beloit, Kansas. NCKCN has a program which allows me to combine plumbing and electricity with my HVAC certification to be able to deliver a full package to my customers. As an Eagle Scout who thinks outside the box, I want to ensure my future is bright by choosing a career path that is in demand, something I enjoy, and am passionate about. Building Construction Technology fits with my love of problem solving and my desire to help others. In my life I have been blessed to have many people guide me including my parents, brothers, robotics coach, pastors, and even an electrician who has taken me under his wing. Volunteering numerous places has always been a part of my life. These places include Boy Scouts, food pantries, churches, youth groups, KICK Karate class, and even teaching ballroom dancing at Cape Ballroom. Through my life I have learned to do the next right thing, help others as much as I can, and look to God for guidance all while being grateful. The Trades Make the World Go Round scholarship would be a gift to me. It help allow me to start my career debt free. My focus could be on providing for my family, serving my community, and starting my business. I would do my best to make the donor of this scholarship proud as I strive to do my best in all I do, give back, and serve others. Thank you for this opportunity to apply.

I am pursuing a career in Building Construction Technology which combines my certification in Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) with Electrical Technology for an Associate Degree from North Central Kansas Technical College (NCKTC) in Beloit Kansas. One might wonder how a young man from Missouri ended up at NCKTC and why this trade is my passion. Being the driving of our FIRST Tech Challenge Robotic Team, Middle Earth Mechanics, for two years confirmed that a career in the trades would be a good fit for me. I am a hands-on type of person who doesn’t always choose the traditional route. I enjoyed job shadowing individuals in HVAC and Electricity. One of the individuals I shadowed happened to be my robotic coach, he encouraged me to find a technical college that had Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning. I found NCKTC, which happens to be in my parents and grandparents hometown. I am able to live at my grandfather’s house while studying in Beloit, Kansas. NCKCN has a program which allows me to combine plumbing and electricity with my HVAC certification to be able to deliver a full package to my customers. As an Eagle Scout who thinks outside the box, I want to ensure my future is bright by choosing a career path that is in demand, something I enjoy, and am passionate about. Building Construction Technology fits with my love of problem solving and my desire to help others. In my life I have been blessed to have many people guide me including my parents, brothers, robotics coach, pastors, and even an electrician who has taken me under his wing. Volunteering numerous places has always been a part of my life. These places include Boy Scouts, food pantries, churches, youth groups, KICK Karate class, and even teaching ballroom dancing at Cape Ballroom. Through my life I have learned to do the next right thing, help others as much as I can, and look to God for guidance all while being grateful. This scholarship honor the memory of John Geremia would be a gift to me. It help allow me to start my career debt free. My focus could be on providing for my family, serving my community, and starting my business. I would do my best to honor his memory by giving back to other as he did and follow in his footstep by leading a life of service making this world a better place

I am pursuing a career in Building Construction Technology which combines my certification in Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) with Electrical Technology for an Associate Degree from North Central Kansas Technical College (NCKTC) in Beloit Kansas. One might wonder how a young man from Missouri ended up at NCKTC and why this trade is my passion. Being the driving of our FIRST Tech Challenge Robotic Team for two years confirmed that a career in the trades might be for me. I am a hands-on type of person who doesn’t always choose the traditional route. After a friendly debate with my parents as to why I wanted to continue to be homeschooled through high school I spent 4 years proving to my parents that homeschooling was the right choice for me and that I could in fact meet all their educational goals while thinking outside the box. Job shadowing led me to HVAC. The individual I shadowed happened to be my robotic coach, he encouraged me to find a technical college that had PHAC. I found NCKTC, which happens to be in my parents and grandparent’s hometown. I am able to live at my grandfather’s house while studying in Beloit. I did some research on PHAC Careers and found that there are numerous opportunities in these areas as many of these tradesmen are close to retirement age. That makes this career path particularly enticing to me as I know I will have a job. Fortunately, the President and Owner of Willow Springs Inc decided to be my mentor. I am fortunate that he has chosen to share his knowledge with me. As someone who thinks outside the box, I want to ensure my future is bright by choosing a career path that is in demand, something I enjoy, and am passionate about Building Construction Technology fits with my love of problem solving and my desire to help others. I have always been the person to see a problem and find a solution. You see it took me a long time to learn how to focus. My brain raced and learning was not easy. When I was in 6th grade I was tested and found out I have gluten intolerance. Once I eliminated gluten from my diet, my ability to focus improved and I was able to succeed in school easier. My freshman year was when COVID-19 interrupted the world. In April of that year, my grandmother died and the day after her death my grandfather got hurt and was hospitalized for 56 days. In May we were finally able to travel to see him and spent 3 months there taking care of him. We moved him back to our house in August 2020 and his camper became my classroom and where my parents slept so my grandfather could have their room. Much time has been spent taking care of my grandparents. Through all this I have learned that the people in your life are what is important. In my life many hard things have happened, my mom being diagnosed with Breast Cancer, my dad being diagnosed with Factor V Leiden after blood clots, my whole family being diagnosed with Celiac disease or Gluten Intolerance, both grandmothers dying and my grandfather being hurt, through all of this I have learned to do the next right thing, help others as much as I can, and look to God for guidance all while being grateful. My chosen career will allow me to continue to think outside the box while helping those who need my services.

I am pursuing a career in Building Construction Technology which combines my certification in Plumbing Heating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) with Electrical Technology for an Associate Degree from North Central Kansas Technical College (NCKTC) in Beloit Kansas. One might wonder how a young man from Missouri ended up at NCKTC and why this trade is my passion. Being the driving of our FIRST Tech Challenge Robotic Team for two years confirmed that a career in the trades might be for me. I am a hands-on type of person who doesn’t always choose the traditional route. After a friendly debate with my parents as to why I wanted to continue to be homeschooled through high school I spent 4 years proving to my parents that homeschooling was the right choice for me and that I could in fact meet all their educational goals while thinking outside the box. Job shadowing led me to HVAC. The individual I shadowed happened to be my robotic coach, he encouraged me to find a technical college that had PHAC. I found NCKTC, which happens to be in my parents and grandparent’s hometown. I am able to live at my grandfather’s house while studying in Beloit. I did some research on PHAC Careers and found that there are numerous opportunities in these areas as many of these tradesmen are close to retirement age. That makes this career path particularly enticing to me as I know I will have a job. Fortunately, the President and Owner of Willow Springs Inc decided to be my mentor. I am fortunate that he has chosen to share his knowledge with me. As someone who thinks outside the box, I want to ensure my future is bright by choosing a career path that is in demand, something I enjoy, and am passionate about Building Construction Technology fits with my love of problem solving and my desire to help others. I have always been the person to see a problem and find a solution. You see it took me a long time to learn how to focus. My brain raced and learning was not easy. When I was in 6th grade I was tested and found out I have gluten intolerance. Once I eliminated gluten from my diet, my ability to focus improved and I was able to succeed in school easier. My freshman year was when COVID-19 interrupted the world. In April of that year, my grandmother died and the day after her death my grandfather got hurt and was hospitalized for 56 days. In May we were finally able to travel to see him and spent 3 months there taking care of him. We moved him back to our house in August 2020 and his camper became my classroom and where my parents slept so my grandfather could have their room. Much time has been spent taking care of my grandparents. Through all this I have learned that the people in your life are what is important. In my life many hard things have happened, my mom being diagnosed with Breast Cancer, my dad being diagnosed with Factor V Leiden after blood clots, my whole family being diagnosed with Celiac disease or Gluten Intolerance, both grandmothers dying and my grandfather being hurt, through all of this I have learned to do the next right thing, help others as much as I can, and look to God for guidance all while being grateful. My chosen career will allow me to continue to think outside the box while helping those who need my services.