I don't think being selfless always means doing something huge. A lot of the time, it just means being willing to give your time to someone else when you could be doing something for yourself. That is something I have learned through volunteering in my community. One experience that has meant a lot to me is volunteering with the You Matter Movement Summer Lunch Program. During the summer, the program provides free meals to kids 18 and under. I spent mornings helping make sure kids in our community had something to eat. It wasn't complicated work, and most of the people receiving the meals probably didn't know my name, but that wasn't the point. Knowing that giving up part of my morning could make somebody else's day a little easier made it worth doing. I have also volunteered at Harvesters Food Bank, sorting and packing food for families who need help. Experiences like that have made me realize how easy it can be to take basic things for granted. Giving a few hours of my time might not seem like much to me, but when a lot of people are willing to do the same thing, it can make a real difference. Another experience I have enjoyed is volunteering with the Learn to Skate program. I have played competitive hockey for years, so skating is something that comes naturally to me now. That isn't the case for a kid stepping onto the ice for the first time. Some are nervous and can barely stand up without falling. Being able to use something I have learned over many years to help younger kids become more confident has been rewarding. Sometimes helping someone just means being patient, encouraging them after they fall, and staying with them until they figure it out. I have also volunteered through Many Parts, One Body, a nonprofit organization run by one of my teachers, and helped with community events at Cable Dahmer Arena. Balancing volunteering with school, hockey, and a part-time job has not always been convenient, but I have tried not to use being busy as a reason not to help. That same idea of helping others is one reason I am pursuing a career as a lineman. I am currently attending the Metropolitan Community College–Blue River Lineman Program. My goal is to become a journeyman lineman and build a career in the electrical utility industry. Linemen do difficult work that most people never see, especially during storms and emergencies when people are depending on them to restore power. I still have a lot to learn, both in my career and in life. But one thing I want to carry with me is the idea that success isn't only about what I accomplish for myself. I want to be someone who works hard, notices when other people need help, and is willing to give some of my time and abilities to make things a little better for someone else.

About a year ago, severe thunderstorms and tornado warnings swept through our area. Community events were canceled, people rushed home, and everyone was trying to stay safe. My dad, however, grabbed his gear and headed to work. As a utility employee, he was responding to multiple power outages across the city. While everyone else was driving away from the storm, he was driving into it. Watching that happen showed me that some careers are about much more than earning a paycheck—they’re about serving others when they need help most. My dad first learned that commitment while serving as a lineman in the United States Air Force, including a deployment to Afghanistan. After leaving the military, he continued serving our community in the utility industry. Although the uniform changed, his commitment to helping others never did. His example taught me the importance of integrity, responsibility, teamwork, and putting others first. Those lessons have shaped my own path. I graduated high school early and enrolled in the Metropolitan Community College–Blue River Lineman Program while continuing to work toward my associate degree. I’ve also volunteered with the Summer Lunch Program, Harvesters Food Bank, and the Learn to Skate program because I believe serving others begins long before you start your career. My goal is to become a journeyman lineman and eventually a leader in the utility industry. I want to be someone communities can depend on during storms and emergencies, just as my dad has been. This scholarship would help pay for tuition, tools, climbing gear, and other equipment so I can focus on preparing for a career built on service.

Growing up, I learned that success isn’t built by one person working alone. My dad served as a military lineman before continuing his career in the utility industry, and from an early age I watched him leave home in the middle of storms and emergencies because people were counting on him. He taught me that linework isn’t just about restoring electricity—it’s about restoring normal life for families, hospitals, schools, and entire communities. Those lessons inspired me to pursue a career as a lineman and shaped the values I try to live every day: generosity, respect, innovation, and teamwork. Generosity has been a part of my life long before I decided on a career in the trades. I’ve volunteered with the Summer Lunch Program, helping provide meals to children during the summer months, worked with Harvesters Food Bank sorting food for families in need, volunteered as an instructor for the Learn to Skate program, and served on the ice crew at Cable Dahmer Arena during community hockey events. I’ve also volunteered with a local nonprofit founded by one of my history teachers and have been recognized for contributing one of the highest totals of volunteer hours among students. These experiences taught me that giving back doesn’t always require money—it requires time, effort, and a willingness to help others. Respect is one of the most important lessons I’ve learned through hockey, work, and the skilled trades. I’ve played competitive hockey for years, where I learned to respect coaches, teammates, opponents, and the responsibility each person has to the team. I carry that same mindset into everything I do. Electricity demands respect because there is no room for shortcuts when lives are at stake. I respect the experienced journeymen who have spent years mastering their craft, and I look forward to learning from them while earning the opportunity to become one myself. To me, innovation doesn’t always mean inventing something new. It means constantly learning and improving. That’s why I’m not only attending the Metropolitan Community College–Blue River Lineman Program but also working toward my associate degree. I want to combine hands-on training with classroom education so I can build the strongest technical foundation possible. The electrical industry continues to evolve with new technology, smarter electrical grids, and changing equipment. I want to continue learning throughout my career so I can adapt, solve problems, and become a better lineman every year. Finally, teamwork is the value that connects everything together. Whether I was on the hockey rink, volunteering in my community, working part-time, or preparing for a career in linework, I’ve learned that success comes from trusting the people around you and doing your part. Line crews depend on one another every day. Good communication, accountability, and trust don’t just make the job easier—they keep everyone safe. That’s the type of teammate I strive to be. My goal is to become a journeyman lineman and eventually grow into a leadership role within the utility industry. I want to be someone communities can depend on when severe weather strikes or emergencies occur. Receiving the SupplyHouse Track to the Trades Scholarship would help pay for tuition, books, climbing gear, tools, and other required equipment, allowing me to focus more fully on becoming the best tradesman I can be. The trades deserve more recognition because they keep our country running every day. I’m proud to be entering a profession built on service, responsibility, and hard work. The values of generosity, respect, innovation, and teamwork aren’t just qualities I admire—they’re the foundation of the career and life I’m committed to building.

Most people only think about electricity when it stops working. For me, growing up around the utility industry showed me the people behind that power long before I understood how the system worked. I watched my father serve as both a military lineman in the United States Air Force and later in the electrical utility industry, and I saw firsthand the pride he took in work that directly helped others. That experience played a major role in shaping who I am and the career path I chose. I graduated high school early in December 2025 because I knew exactly where I wanted to go. Rather than following the traditional four-year college route, I chose to pursue a career in the skilled trades and enrolled in the Metropolitan Community College–Blue River Lineman Program while also working toward an Associate of Applied Science degree. I was drawn to the trades because I wanted a career built on skill, hard work, and tangible results. At the end of the day, I want to be able to look back and see something real that I helped build, repair, or restore. What motivates me most about becoming a lineman is the opportunity to serve communities in a meaningful way. Whether it is restoring power after storms, responding to emergencies, or helping maintain the infrastructure that people depend on every day, linework is a career where your effort directly impacts others. There are not many careers where your work can help an entire community get back on its feet after a disaster, and that sense of purpose is something that strongly appeals to me. My background has prepared me for the demands of this profession. I work part-time at a local golf range, where I have learned responsibility, reliability, and the value of showing up ready to work every day. I have also spent years playing competitive hockey, which taught me discipline, teamwork, and how to perform under pressure. Early practices, travel schedules, and demanding seasons taught me how to push through challenges and stay focused on long-term goals. Giving back to my community is also important to me. I have volunteered through the You Matter Movement Summer Lunch Program, Harvesters Food Bank, the Learn to Skate program, and community events at Cable Dahmer Arena. Those experiences reinforced my belief that work is about more than earning a paycheck—it is about contributing to something larger than yourself. The trades are not a backup plan for me. They are my first choice. I am proud to pursue a career that requires skill, determination, and a willingness to work hard. My goal is to become a journeyman lineman, continue learning throughout my career, and eventually help train and mentor the next generation of lineworkers who will keep our communities powered and connected.

Growing up as the child of a military veteran shaped the way I view work, service, and responsibility long before I began planning my own career. My father served in the United States Air Force as a lineman and later deployed to Afghanistan in support of military operations overseas. Watching his commitment to his country and his family taught me that meaningful work is not always easy or convenient, but it is worth doing because other people depend on you. Military life taught our family the importance of discipline, preparation, and adaptability. Whether it was balancing family responsibilities during deployments or adjusting to the challenges that came with military service, I learned early that success comes from showing up, working hard, and staying committed even when circumstances are difficult. Those lessons continue to guide me today. My father’s service also introduced me to the electrical utility industry. After leaving active duty, he continued serving his community by working in the power industry, first as a lineman and later in substations as a relay technician. Through him, I saw firsthand the pride that comes from restoring power after storms, responding to emergencies, and helping keep communities running safely and reliably. That example played a major role in my decision to pursue a career as a lineman. Today, I am enrolled in the Metropolitan Community College–Blue River Lineman Program while also working toward an Associate of Applied Science degree. My goal is to become a journeyman lineman and eventually continue growing within the utility industry through leadership opportunities and advanced technical roles. I am especially drawn to the service aspect of the profession. Much like military service, utility work often means long hours, difficult conditions, and answering the call when people need help most. While my family’s military background has provided me with invaluable lessons and opportunities, paying for trade school still requires careful planning. I work part-time and actively pursue scholarships to help cover the cost of tuition, books, climbing equipment, tools, safety gear, boots, and CDL training. Scholarships like this one help reduce that financial burden and allow me to focus more of my time and energy on developing the skills necessary to build a successful career in the utility industry rather than worrying about how to cover the next expense. Being the child of a veteran has also motivated me to give back to my community. I have volunteered through the You Matter Movement Summer Lunch Program, Harvesters Food Bank, and the Learn to Skate program while balancing school, work, and athletics. Those experiences reinforced the importance of serving others and contributing to something larger than myself. The values I learned from growing up in a veteran family—service, accountability, teamwork, and perseverance—have shaped both the person I am and the career I hope to build. My goal is not only to have a successful career but to continue the tradition of service that my father demonstrated through both his military service and his work serving the public at home.

When I decided to pursue a career as a lineman, I knew success in this trade would require more than ambition—it would require a detailed plan. One of the sayings I have heard throughout my life is, “Plan your work, work your plan.” That mindset perfectly describes how I have approached my education and career goals. My long-term goal is to become a journeyman lineman and eventually grow into leadership opportunities within the electrical utility industry, possibly as a foreman, troubleman, or relay technician. I want to build a career that serves communities directly, especially during storms and emergencies when restoring power can make an immediate difference in people’s lives. My plan begins with education. I graduated high school early in December 2025 to give myself a head start on my career path. In January 2026, I began completing general education classes that apply toward an Associate of Applied Science degree while preparing for lineman school. In June 2026, I started the Metropolitan Community College–Blue River Lineman Program, a three-semester program that combines classroom instruction with hands-on training in climbing, electrical theory, safety practices, and equipment operation. My goal is to complete both the lineman certificate and associate degree by June 2027. I have also built a detailed financial plan for this path. Tuition and fees for the lineman program, books, climbing gear, hand tools, safety equipment, boots, and CDL expenses will total approximately $20,000 to $25,000. I expect to cover roughly $8,000 through part-time work before and during the program and another $10,000 to $12,000 through federal financial aid and my John Geremia Memorial Industrial Trades Scholarship.That leaves a gap of approximately $5,000 to $7,000, which I am working to close through additional scholarships like this one. Every dollar I earn through scholarships is a dollar I do not have to borrow, which means less debt and more focus on training once I enter the field. I have also considered what happens if parts of this plan do not go exactly as scheduled. If a class does not transfer as expected or the program timeline shifts, my backup plan is to increase my hours at my current job or pursue temporary work opportunities to stay on track financially without delaying my education. If equipment and tool costs exceed my estimates, I plan to purchase select items used or borrow from instructors and mentors before buying new equipment. Planning for obstacles is just as important as planning for success. Experience outside the classroom supports this plan as well. I currently work part-time at a local golf range, which has taught me responsibility, dependability, and the value of hard work while I save for school. I have also volunteered with the You Matter Movement Summer Lunch Program, Harvesters Food Bank, and the Learn to Skate program, experiences that reinforced the discipline and commitment I bring to this career path. My goal is not simply to get a job but to build a lifelong profession that allows me to support my family, continue learning, and serve my community. I have a clear destination, a realistic budget, contingency plans for the unexpected, and a timeline to get there. Now my job is simple: work the plan every single day until the goal becomes reality.

Being a first-generation college student means being the first person in my immediate family to step into unfamiliar territory and create opportunities that did not exist before. While education and hard work have always been important in my family, neither of my parents earned a college degree. As I prepare to attend college and trade school, I understand that I am helping build a new path not only for myself but for future generations of my family as well. Growing up, I learned the value of work, service, and commitment from my parents. My dad served as a military lineman before building a career in the utility industry, and watching his dedication to serving others inspired me to pursue a career as a lineman myself. Although I have always had strong support at home, navigating college admissions, financial aid, scholarships, and planning my education has been a learning experience for all of us. One of the biggest challenges came when I started applying for financial aid. No one at home had filled out the FAFSA before, and I remember sitting at the kitchen table with my parents as we tried to understand verification requirements, deadlines, and what forms were needed. At times, it felt like we were piecing together a puzzle without the picture on the box. Instead of giving up, I reached out to my high school counselor and financial aid offices, asked questions, and kept working through the process until it finally made sense. That experience taught me that asking for help is not a weakness. For a first-generation student, it is part of building the roadmap no one handed you. I will be attending the lineman program at Metropolitan Community College–Blue River while also working toward my associate degree. Pursuing both a trade certificate and a college degree is important to me because I want to build the strongest foundation possible for my future career. Skilled trades are essential to our communities, and I take pride in preparing for a profession that keeps homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses operating safely. Along the way, I have balanced academics with competitive hockey, part-time work, and volunteer service through organizations such as the Summer Lunch Program, Harvesters Food Bank, and the Learn to Skate program. Those experiences taught me discipline, teamwork, and perseverance while reinforcing the importance of giving back to the community. My goal is to become a journeyman lineman and eventually grow into a leadership role within the utility industry. This scholarship would help cover tuition, books, tools, and equipment costs while allowing me to focus more fully on my education and training. Being first-generation is not something I see as a disadvantage. I see it as an opportunity to set an example, create new possibilities, and show that there are many paths to success through education, skilled trades, and hard work.

The trades have always felt personal to me. I grew up watching my dad, a former military lineman who now works in the substation department for a local utility, bring pride and purpose to a job that most people never think about until the power goes out. Hearing his stories about restoring power after storms and seeing the dedication the job demanded showed me that linework isn’t just a career — it’s an essential service that entire communities depend on. That’s what inspired me to follow the same path. I’ll be attending the lineman program at Metropolitan Community College–Blue River while continuing to work toward my associate degree. I chose this route because I enjoy hands-on problem-solving and being part of a team where the work has a visible and immediate impact. Skilled trades are the backbone of our communities, and I want to be part of the workforce that keeps homes, hospitals, schools, and businesses powered and running safely. The biggest obstacle I’ve faced is financial. Lineman programs come with real costs — tuition, books, climbing gear, tools, and safety equipment — and I plan to continue working part-time while attending a demanding training program. That balancing act is something I’ve had practice with. Years of competitive hockey taught me how to manage tight schedules, show up exhausted and still perform, and rely on a team instead of trying to do everything alone. Graduating high school early while balancing work, athletics, and volunteer commitments strengthened those same skills and reinforced my commitment to this career path. Outside of school, I’ve volunteered with the Summer Lunch Program, Harvesters Food Bank, and the Learn to Skate program. Those experiences reinforced something important to me: I want a career built around service, not just a paycheck. My goal is to become a journeyman lineman and eventually move into a leadership role within the utility industry so I can be someone communities count on during storms, emergencies, and difficult times. This scholarship would help cover the cost of tuition,tools, climbing gear, and other required equipment while reducing the financial pressure that comes with pursuing technical training. More than easing a financial burden, it would be an investment in a trade I’m proud to build my future around.

The first time I learned what happens when power goes out during a storm, I realized the skilled trades are more than a way to make a living they’re a way to keep a community safe and running when people need help most. My name is Evan, and I’m pursuing the electrical line trade because I want a hands-on career that is challenging, meaningful, and built on responsibility. I have been accepted to the Lineman Training Program at Metropolitan Community College (MCC) – Blue River, which begins in June 2026. My career objective is to complete the program, earn my lineman certificate, and begin work as an apprentice lineman. From there, I plan to build experience in the field, continue developing my skills through training and certifications, and work toward becoming a journeyman. Long term, I want to grow into leadership roles on a crew, especially in storm restoration and outage response, because that work has a direct impact on families, schools, hospitals, and businesses. I’m choosing trade school because it offers a clear path to a stable career without taking on the cost and time of a four-year program. I’m a hands-on learner, and I like work where effort turns into real skill and where you can see results at the end of the day. I’ve built that mindset through competitive hockey, community volunteering, and part-time work. Those experiences taught me discipline, teamwork, communication, and how to stay calm under pressure—qualities that matter in the trades and especially in linework, where safety and trust are everything. I also have real financial need. Even though trade school is more affordable than many options, the lineman program still requires significant expenses beyond tuition. Costs include program fees, books, daily transportation, and required gear and tools such as boots and PPE. I plan to attend full-time and continue working part-time, but the program is demanding and the expenses add up quickly. Scholarship support would reduce the burden on my family and help me focus on training safely and successfully instead of worrying about whether I can afford every required item. This scholarship would help me stay on track, complete my training, and begin my career prepared and ready to contribute. My goal is to build a future through skilled work I can be proud of and to become someone my community can count on when the lights go out.

I don’t remember the moment clearly, but it’s become one of those family stories that gets repeated because it says everything in a few words. My parents tell me that when I was about three, I was on a video call with my dad while he was away for military service. I stared at the screen for a while, then finally blurted out, “I’m tired. I don’t want to talk to my computer daddy anymore. I want to talk to my real daddy.” It makes people laugh when they hear it, but when I got older, I realized it wasn’t really funny at all—it was honest. That’s what it can feel like to be a military kid. You’re proud of what your parent is doing, but you also want what other kids take for granted: a real hug, a real voice in the same room, a real seat at the dinner table. My dad served in the Air Force. When he deployed to Afghanistan our family lived through the longer version of that “computer daddy” feeling. Life didn’t stop—school still happened, practices still happened, chores still happened—but the house felt different. My mom held everything together, and I watched her do what military families do best: keep moving forward even when they’re worried. There were days when I’d count down to the next call and days when I tried not to think about it too much because it felt heavy. The lesson my dad taught me during that time wasn’t something he said in one perfect sentence. It was something I learned by watching how he handled duty. He didn’t talk about service like it made him special. He treated it like a responsibility—show up, do the work right, look out for your team, and come home with your integrity. Over time, I realized that’s a kind of leadership. It’s steady. It doesn’t need attention. It’s just consistent. That mindset has stuck with me in my own life. It’s pushed me to be dependable—at school, at work, and in the things I commit to. It’s also shaped what I want to do next. I’m pursuing the skilled trades to become a lineman because I want a career built on teamwork, responsibility, and service. When storms hit and the power goes out, linemen are the people who restore safety and normal life for everyone else. That feels familiar to me, because I grew up seeing what it means to be the person who goes when others can’t. Whenever I think about that little kid on the video call, I feel grateful. Not because deployment was easy, but because it helped shape who I’m becoming—someone who understands sacrifice, values family, and wants to build a life of steady service in return.

The first time I heard my dad talk about restoring power after a storm, I realized skilled trades aren’t just “work.” They’re what keep communities safe, functioning, and able to recover when things go wrong. I’m planning to study the electrical line trade and become a lineman. I’ve been accepted to the Lineman Training Program at Metropolitan Community College–Blue River, which begins in June 2026. I chose this trade because it’s hands-on, high-skill work that combines problem-solving, physical ability, and responsibility. I like learning skills that are practical and measurable, and I want a career where my effort turns into a craft I can be proud of. Linework matters every day, but it matters even more when storms hit and the power is out for families, hospitals, and businesses. I’m pursuing a career in this trade because it offers a clear path built on training and performance. My goal is to complete lineman school, start as an apprentice, and work toward becoming a journeyman. Long term, I want to grow into leadership roles and continue learning—possibly moving into storm response leadership, crew supervision, or specialized work involving substations and modern grid technologies. I want to build a stable future through a trade that has purpose and real impact. I believe I will be successful in this trade because I’ve built the habits that matter most: discipline, coachability, and consistency. Competitive hockey taught me how to work under pressure, communicate, and put the team first. You improve by taking feedback, focusing on details, and doing your job even when you’re tired—exactly the mindset needed for safe linework. I also work part-time at a local golf range, where I’ve learned reliability: showing up on time, handling physical tasks, and taking care of equipment because others depend on it. Volunteering has reinforced the same values—showing up consistently and helping without needing recognition. I also want to be honest about financial need. Trade school is more affordable than many four-year options, but the lineman program still comes with significant costs beyond tuition—program fees, books, transportation, and required safety gear and tools. Because the program is intensive and hands-on, I plan to attend full-time while continuing to work part-time. Even with careful planning, covering every required cost can create real financial pressure. To me, a successful life is not only about income—it’s about stability, pride in honest work, and being someone others can count on. It means building a skill that supports your family, continuing to learn, and contributing to your community. I believe I will be successful because I’m committed to doing things the right way: putting safety first, staying disciplined, and earning trust through consistent effort. This scholarship would help reduce the financial burden of training and allow me to focus on completing the program strong and starting my career on solid ground.

The first time I heard my dad talk about restoring power after a storm, I realized the skilled trades aren’t just jobs—they’re how communities stay safe and recover when things go wrong. That’s the kind of work I want to build my future around. My name is Evan, and I am pursuing the skilled electrical trades to become a lineman. I have been accepted to the Lineman Training Program at Metropolitan Community College–Blue River, which begins in June 2026. My career objective is to complete the program, earn my lineman certificate, and begin working as an apprentice lineman. From there, I plan to continue training, develop my skills in the field, and work toward becoming a journeyman. Long term, I want to grow into leadership roles—such as a crew foreman—and continue learning about substations and modern grid technology so I can help maintain and improve the systems that power homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses. This scholarship would make a real difference for me financially. Trade school is more affordable than many four-year options, but it still comes with significant costs beyond tuition—fees, books, required PPE, tools, and transportation to class and training yards. The lineman program is intensive and hands-on, and I plan to attend full-time while continuing to work part-time. Even with careful planning, those combined expenses can create financial pressure on my family and on me as I prepare for this career. Receiving support through the Grover Scholarship Fund would reduce that burden and allow me to focus on training safely and successfully, rather than worrying about how to cover every required cost. It would help me purchase the right safety gear and tools, stay current on fees and course materials, and reduce the number of hours I need to work while in school. Most importantly, it would help me stay fully committed to completing the program and starting my career strong. I’m choosing the trade path because I want to work hard, learn a skill that matters, and build a stable future. This scholarship would help me take the next step toward becoming a dependable lineman my community can count on.

When I was little, my parents tell me I once got frustrated during a video call and said, “I’m tired. I don’t want to talk to my computer daddy anymore. I want to talk to my real daddy.” I don’t remember that moment clearly, but I understand it now. I was trying to describe what many military kids feel—the distance, the uncertainty, and the way you learn to adapt before you fully understand why. When he deployed to Afghanistan our family had to find a new rhythm. School, sports, meals, and everyday responsibilities didn’t stop, but there was always a missing seat and a background worry that didn’t go away. My mom carried a lot during that season, and I learned that strength often looks ordinary: keeping routines, doing what needs to be done, and staying steady for the people you love. That time shaped how I view education. Education isn’t only about grades or a diploma—it’s direction. It’s learning how to set goals, follow through, and build a future one decision at a time. When life feels uncertain, education gives structure. It teaches you that progress is usually earned through consistency: show up, ask questions, practice, and improve. Those habits don’t just help you in school—they shape who you become. As I’ve grown, education has helped me understand what kind of learner I am and what kind of work I want to do. I’m a hands-on person. I like solving real problems, using practical skills, and being part of a team where the outcome matters. That’s why I’m pursuing the skilled trades—specifically the electrical line trade. I’ve been accepted to the Lineman Training Program at Metropolitan Community College–Blue River beginning in June 2026, and I’m committed to learning the craft the right way. My upbringing connects directly to that goal. My dad worked as a lineman in the military and now works in the utility industry. Growing up around that example taught me that the trades are about more than physical ability. They’re about discipline, professionalism, and respect for safety procedures, because one careless decision can put people in danger. I learned early that you don’t cut corners, you don’t rush past the basics, and you don’t let ego override the standard. That lesson shaped my sense of pride: real pride comes from preparation and doing things correctly when it matters. Education has also helped me see why this trade fits my sense of purpose. Electricity touches everything—homes, schools, hospitals, businesses—and when power goes out, it becomes more than an inconvenience. It affects safety and daily life, sometimes immediately. Linemen restore not just electricity, but normal life and stability for a community. The idea that my training can become that kind of impact is what gives my education meaning. One challenge I’ve worked through is learning to stay focused when life is full. I balance school with responsibilities and commitments, and that has forced me to develop discipline. I have a part-time job at a local golf range, where I’ve learned what reliability looks like in real life: showing up on time, handling physical tasks, helping with operations, and taking care of equipment because people are counting on it. Work teaches you quickly that effort matters most when it’s consistent, not occasional. Competitive hockey has been another major part of my life, and it has shaped me as much as any class. Hockey taught me time management, teamwork, and how to stay calm under pressure. It also taught me to accept coaching, communicate clearly, and stay accountable even when it’s uncomfortable. In stressful moments, you learn to focus on what you can control—your effort, your decision-making, and your attitude. Those are the same qualities I will need in trade school and in the field, where conditions aren’t always ideal and safety depends on clear thinking. Volunteering has also shaped the kind of impact I want to have. I’ve served with the You Matter Movement Summer Lunch Program and volunteered with Harvesters Food Bank. I’ve also helped as a Learn-to-Skate instructor and volunteered behind the scenes as ice crew at Cable Dahmer Arena. Through “Many Parts, One Body,” a teacher-run nonprofit at my school, I’ve participated in local service projects and earned one of the highest totals of student volunteer hours. Those experiences taught me that making a difference is often simple: show up, help where you’re needed, and treat people with respect. It doesn’t have to be dramatic to be meaningful. All of these experiences—military family life, school, work, sports, and service—have shaped my ambitions. My plan is to complete the lineman program, start as an apprentice, and work toward becoming a journeyman. I also want to pursue the IBEW pathway and continue building my skills through additional training and certifications. Long term, I’m interested in leadership roles—possibly becoming a crew foreman, supporting storm response, or working with substations and modern grid technologies. As the energy industry evolves, I want to keep learning so I can grow with it. When I think about creating a better future, I think about two things: being dependable and setting an example. Being dependable means showing up prepared, communicating clearly, and putting safety first every single time. Setting an example means using what I learn to help the next person—mentoring new apprentices, encouraging students to consider the trades, and proving through my actions that skilled work is worthy of respect. Not everyone needs a four-year degree to build an important life. What matters is choosing a path that fits your strengths and committing fully to it. “Dream BIG, Rise HIGHER” matters to me because dreaming big is only the beginning. Rising higher happens when you keep moving forward through uncertainty and pressure—when you turn challenges into discipline and purpose. My education has given me direction and a clear goal: build a stable future through skilled work that serves others. I’m not just trying to reach the next step. I’m trying to become the kind of person who earns every step along the way.

The first time I helped a younger kid stand up on skates without falling, I saw how a small act of encouragement can change someone’s confidence in a matter of minutes. That moment stuck with me because it showed me the kind of impact I want to have—steady, positive, and rooted in service. My name is Evan, and I’m a high school senior pursuing a career in the skilled trades. I’ve been accepted to the Lineman Training Program at Metropolitan Community College–Blue River, which begins in June 2026. I’m drawn to the electrical line trade because it’s hands-on work with real purpose. Linemen keep communities powered, safe, and connected, and when storms or emergencies happen, the work becomes even more important. I want a career where I can take pride in helping people—restoring power, supporting public safety, and being part of the teams that help communities recover. Outside the classroom, I’ve stayed busy in extracurriculars that have shaped my character. Competitive hockey has been a major part of my life, and it has taught me discipline, resilience, and teamwork. Sports showed me that results come from consistent habits: listening to coaching, communicating under pressure, and doing the small things right even when no one is watching. I’ve also worked as ice crew volunteer at Cable Dahmer Arena, which taught me responsibility in a fast-paced environment—doing the job correctly, following directions, and helping the team succeed behind the scenes. Volunteering has also been important to me because it keeps me connected to my community. I volunteer with the You Matter Movement Summer Lunch Program in Blue Springs, helping provide free meals to youth, and I’ve volunteered with Harvesters Food Bank sorting and packing food for families. I’m also a volunteer instructor for a Learn-to-Skate program, where I help younger kids learn basic skills and feel supported. Through “Many Parts, One Body,” a teacher-run nonprofit at my school, I’ve participated in local service projects and earned one of the highest student volunteer-hour totals. These experiences taught me that making a difference isn’t about one big moment—it’s about showing up consistently and treating people with respect. One adversity I’ve had to overcome is learning how to stay steady during uncertainty. My dad served in the Air Force and deployed to Afghanistan from July 2011 to March 2012. I was younger, but I felt the stress and worry that came with having a parent deployed. During that time, I learned to focus on what I could control: my effort in school, my attitude at home, and being dependable rather than adding stress to my family. That experience built resilience and taught me to keep going even when things are difficult—skills that continue to help me balance school, work, sports, and service. In my career, I plan to make a positive impact by becoming a lineman who is known for safety, reliability, and teamwork. I want to do work that protects my community and keeps people connected to the things they need every day. Long term, I hope to grow into leadership roles and eventually help mentor the next generation entering the trades—because the best way to honor people who uplift others is to do the same.

The first time I watched a storm roll through and knock out power, I remember thinking about the crews who would be out there in the dark—working in tough conditions so everyone else could get back to normal. 1) What trade are you pursuing and why are you passionate about it? I’m pursuing the electrical line trade and training to become a lineman. I’ve been accepted to the Lineman Training Program at Metropolitan Community College–Blue River starting in June 2026. I’m passionate about this trade because it’s hands-on, high-skill work with a clear purpose. Linework combines problem-solving, physical ability, and teamwork, and it directly impacts people’s daily lives. When power is out, it affects safety, health, and basic comfort. I want a career where I can take pride in doing work that truly matters—work that keeps communities connected and helps them recover after storms. 2) What are your future plans after your trade education? After completing the lineman program, my goal is to start as an apprentice lineman, continue learning in the field, and work toward becoming a journeyman. I also plan to pursue opportunities with the IBEW, following the example of my dad, who has been an IBEW member for over 20 years. Long term, I want to grow into leadership roles—possibly a crew foreman—and continue building my skills in areas like substations or modern grid technology. I want to be known as someone who shows up prepared, communicates clearly, and puts safety first every day. 3) Describe a time in your life when you overcame adversity. How did you work through it? One of the hardest challenges I’ve faced was learning to handle uncertainty and responsibility when my dad deployed to Afghanistan. I was younger, and I didn’t fully understand everything, but I felt the stress in our home. My mom carried a lot during that time, and I learned quickly that the best way I could help was by being dependable—keeping up with school, listening, doing what I was asked, and not adding extra pressure. I remember my parents telling me that when I was very little, I got frustrated during a video call and said I didn’t want to talk to “computer daddy,” I wanted my real dad. Looking back, that moment captures what military families live with: loving someone who isn’t always physically there and pushing through the distance. That experience taught me resilience and focus. I learned to control what I could—my effort, my attitude, and how I showed up each day. Those lessons are still with me now as I balance school, a part-time job, and competitive hockey. When things get stressful, I fall back on the same approach: stay disciplined, keep moving forward, and lean on teamwork. That’s the same mindset I will bring to the trades, where safety, consistency, and trust are everything.

When I was three, my parents tell me I got frustrated during a video call and said, “I’m tired. I don’t want to talk to my computer daddy anymore. I want to talk to my real daddy.” I don’t remember every detail of that moment, but I understand it now. It captures what life can feel like for a military kid: loving someone who isn’t always physically there, and learning early that service comes with distance, uncertainty, and sacrifice. My dad served in the Air Force from 1993 to 1997 on active duty and then from 1998 to 2017 in the Air Force Reserves. When he deployed to Afghanistan from July 2011 to March 2012, our family entered a different rhythm. Everyday life still happened—school, meals, practices, chores—but there was always a missing seat. My mom carried a lot during that time. She kept our home steady and helped me understand what it meant that my dad was serving somewhere dangerous. As a kid, you feel the weight even if you don’t have the words for it: the quiet worry in the house, the countdown to the next call, and the way you try to be “good” because you don’t want to add stress. Being the child of a military parent taught me adaptability. You learn to adjust quickly, to handle changes without complaining, and to appreciate routines that other families might take for granted. It also taught me perspective. When my dad came home, I understood a little more about why he left in the first place—because he believed in serving something bigger than himself. That example shaped how I view work, responsibility, and commitment. My dad didn’t talk about service like it was heroic; he treated it like a duty. Watching that approach taught me that character shows up in consistency: showing up when it’s hard, doing what you said you would do, and taking care of your team. That mindset has carried into my own life. I’ve learned to manage my time, follow through, and stay disciplined—skills that matter in school, sports, and work. I’ve also learned not to measure sacrifices only in dramatic moments. Sometimes sacrifice looks like missing birthdays, holidays, and ordinary days that you can’t get back. Military families live with that reality, and it teaches you to value people and time in a deeper way. As I plan my future, I carry those lessons with me. I’m pursuing the skilled trades to become a lineman because I want a career built on service, teamwork, and responsibility. Linemen restore power after storms, keep communities running, and rely on discipline and safety—values that feel familiar to me because of how I was raised. My goal is to build a stable future and to be the kind of person others can depend on when things go wrong. I’m proud of my dad’s service, but I’m also proud of what our family learned through it: resilience, gratitude, and commitment. Those values have shaped who I am, and they will guide the way I work, lead, and serve my community in the years ahead.

The first time I helped a nervous beginner stand up on skates without falling, I saw how much youth sports can change a kid’s confidence in about thirty seconds. My name is Evan, and I’m a high school senior who has grown up in hockey. Competitive hockey has shaped who I am—not just as an athlete, but as a teammate, a leader, and a person who understands that sports can build character. Over the years, the rink has taught me discipline, time management, and how to keep working when things get hard. It has also shown me how important it is for young athletes to have adults and older players who make the game feel safe, positive, and welcoming. That’s why I’ve chosen to stay involved beyond just playing. I volunteer as a Learn-to-Skate instructor, helping younger kids learn basic skating skills and feel comfortable on the ice. Many of them show up unsure of themselves or worried they’ll be embarrassed. I try to be the person who encourages them, breaks skills into small steps, and celebrates progress instead of perfection. I’ve learned that coaching isn’t about being loud—it’s about being consistent, patient, and supportive, especially for the kids who struggle at first. I’m also an ice crew volunteer at Cable Dahmer Arena, where I help with behind-the-scenes work that keeps events running smoothly. That experience has taught me responsibility and teamwork in a different way—doing the job right, staying calm when schedules get tight, and helping the group succeed without needing recognition. Those lessons carry over directly to how I show up as a teammate and mentor. Outside the rink, I’ve stayed committed to service. I volunteer with the You Matter Movement Summer Lunch Program in Blue Springs and at Harvesters Food Bank. Through “Many Parts, One Body,” a teacher-run nonprofit at my school, I’ve participated in local service projects and earned one of the highest student volunteer hour totals. Volunteering has reinforced something I believe strongly: communities get better when people show up consistently and do what’s needed. Looking forward, I plan to keep making a positive impact through youth sports by continuing to coach and mentor younger players. Whether it’s helping with Learn-to-Skate sessions, assisting with youth practices, or simply being the older player who stays after to help a kid work on a skill, I want to help create the kind of sports environment where kids grow—not just as athletes, but as people. I want them to learn teamwork, respect, resilience, and confidence, because those lessons last longer than any scoreboard. Jimmie “DC” Sullivan’s legacy of commitment to youth sports and community involvement matters because it reminds us that the biggest impact often comes from investing in the next generation. Through hockey and service, I want to be the kind of person who does that—one practice, one kid, and one encouraging moment at a time.

The first time I watched my dad come home from a storm callout—tired, dirty, and proud—I understood that the trades aren’t “just jobs.” They’re how a community gets built, repaired, and kept safe when people need it most. I’m passionate about pursuing the electrical line trade because it combines problem-solving, physical skill, and real responsibility. I’ve been accepted to the Lineman Training Program at Metropolitan Community College–Blue River, starting in June 2026, and my goal is to become a lineman who is known for doing things the right way: safely, consistently, and with pride in the work. Electricity touches everything—homes, schools, hospitals, businesses—and linework is one of the clearest examples of how skilled trades protect the daily life people depend on. My upbringing shaped that mindset. I grew up around the utility world through my father’s work as a lineman in the military and later in the utility industry. He has also been an IBEW member for over 25 years, and the values that come with that—craftsmanship, training, safety, and looking out for your crew—were part of my normal life. I didn’t learn respect from speeches; I learned it from seeing procedures followed, PPE taken seriously, and teamwork treated as non-negotiable. Hearing stories about storm restoration and long nights taught me that service sometimes looks like sacrifice: missing comfort, free time, and even holidays so other families can have light and heat. That example is a big reason I’m choosing this field. Life events outside of work also shaped who I am. Competitive hockey taught me that talent doesn’t matter if you aren’t disciplined. Showing up early, taking coaching, and staying composed when things get intense are what separate people who “want it” from people who earn it. Hockey built my strength and endurance, but it also built habits that transfer directly to the trades: communication, attention to detail, and accountability to the team. I’ve also worked part-time at a local golf range, where I’ve learned that reliability is a skill. You don’t get to be “off” when customers are waiting or equipment needs to be cared for—you do the work correctly, even when it’s repetitive or physically demanding. Volunteering has taught me something just as important: impact. I’ve served with the You Matter Movement Summer Lunch Program, volunteered at Harvesters Food Bank, and helped teach younger kids as a Learn-to-Skate instructor. Those experiences reminded me that being dependable is a form of leadership. People remember who shows up, who treats others with respect, and who does what needs to be done without needing credit. Throughout these experiences, I’ve learned that pride comes from preparation. I’m passionate about the trades because they reward discipline, skill, and character. After I complete lineman school, I plan to pursue an IBEW pathway, start as an apprentice, and work toward journeyman status. Long term, I want to continue learning and possibly specialize in substations or modern grid technologies. I want to build a stable future for myself—and I want to be part of the workforce that keeps my community safe, resilient, and moving forward.

The first time I heard my dad talk about storm restoration work, I understood that linemen don’t just repair lines—they help bring communities back to normal. I’m Evan, a high school senior pursuing the skilled industrial trades, and I’ve been accepted to the Lineman Training Program at Metropolitan Community College–Blue River, which begins in June 2026. My dad has been an IBEW member for over 25 years, and that example has shaped my goals: after I complete lineman school, I plan to pursue entry into the IBEW apprenticeship pathway and work toward becoming a journeyman lineman. I know linework is not a solitary job. The best crews operate with trust, clear communication, and the courage to speak up when safety or quality is at stake. I learned a real lesson about initiative and leadership through competitive hockey. During one stretch of our season, our team was losing games because of preventable mistakes—missed assignments, rushed decisions, and frustration on the bench. I wasn’t a captain, but I could see we needed a reset, so I asked our coach if I could organize a short, optional extra session before the next practice. I kept the plan simple and focused: positioning basics, communication calls, and short, high-effort drills that forced us to talk and stay disciplined. The outcome was mostly positive. The players who attended started communicating more on the ice, and our next games were more controlled—fewer breakdowns, better effort, and a stronger team mindset. But I also learned what I would do differently. Not everyone came, and a few teammates took it the wrong way, like it was meant to call people out. Looking back, I should have communicated the purpose better and involved others in leading it. If I could redo it, I’d ask a couple teammates to help run stations and make the goal crystal clear: it’s not about blame—it’s about building trust and doing the small things right, together. That lesson is exactly why I’m drawn to linework and the IBEW culture—leadership means preparation, communication, and earning respect by putting the team and safety first.

The first time I heard my dad describe restoring power after a storm, I realized the skilled trades aren’t just about building things—they’re about keeping people safe and helping communities recover when life gets hard. My name is Evan, and I’m a high school senior preparing for a career in the electrical skilled trades. I’ve been accepted to the Lineman Training Program at Metropolitan Community College–Blue River, which begins in June 2026. I’m choosing the trades because I want a future where my effort directly turns into skill, where doing the job right matters, and where the work I do has a clear impact on other people’s lives. My interest in this path started at home. My dad worked as a lineman in the military and now works in the electric utility industry. Growing up around that example showed me what pride in work really looks like: training seriously, respecting safety rules, communicating clearly, and taking responsibility for your crew. It also taught me that reliability is a form of service. People depend on electricity every day—homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses—and when the grid is damaged, it takes trained professionals to restore normal life safely. That’s the kind of purpose I want in my career. I’ve also worked to build the habits that matter in the trades. I hold a part-time job at a local golf range where I show up on time, handle physical tasks, help with small repairs, and take care of equipment. Competitive hockey has been another major part of my life, and it has shaped my mindset more than anything. Hockey taught me discipline, communication, and how to stay calm under pressure. It also taught me to be coachable—because you don’t improve unless you listen, learn, and put the team first. Those are the same qualities I want to bring to climbing, rigging, and working aloft in all kinds of conditions. Volunteering has helped me understand impact in a different way: showing up consistently for people who need help. I volunteer with the You Matter Movement Summer Lunch Program in Blue Springs, and I’ve also volunteered with Harvesters Food Bank sorting and packing food for families. I’m a volunteer instructor for a Learn-to-Skate program where I teach younger kids basic skills and help them feel confident. I’ve also served as an ice crew volunteer at Cable Dahmer Arena, supporting hockey events and helping with behind-the-scenes work that keeps things running smoothly. Through “Many Parts, One Body,” a teacher-run nonprofit at my school, I’ve participated in local service projects and earned one of the highest totals of student volunteer hours. Those experiences taught me to be dependable, respectful, and mission-focused—exactly the attitude a crew expects on the job site. My goals are clear. After completing the lineman program, I plan to start as an apprentice lineman and work toward becoming a journeyman. Long term, I want to grow into leadership roles—possibly as a crew foreman or in specialized work involving substations and modern grid technologies. I want to build a stable future for myself while doing work that strengthens my community. I’m proud to pursue a trade where craftsmanship, safety, and service are the standard, and I’m ready to earn my place in it.

The first time I heard my dad describe restoring power after a storm, I realized some jobs don’t just earn a paycheck—they bring a community back to normal. That’s why I’m excited to pursue trade school and train to become a lineman. I have been accepted to the Lineman Training Program at Metropolitan Community College–Blue River, which begins in June 2026. Trade school motivates me because it’s hands-on, practical, and focused on mastering skills that employers need right away. I want training that prepares me to step onto a job site ready to contribute and ready to learn safely. I’m drawn to linework because it combines teamwork, problem-solving, and service. My dad worked as a lineman in the military and now works in the utility industry, and he taught me that the job is built on safety, procedures, and trust. That mindset matches how I work. I hold a part-time job at a local golf range where I show up early and handle physical tasks, and competitive hockey has taught me discipline, communication, and how to stay calm under pressure. After I graduate, my goal is to start as an apprentice lineman, earn journeyman status, and grow into leadership roles—possibly in storm response, crew supervision, or substation and grid-technology work. I want a stable, well-paying career I can be proud of, and I want to be the person my community can count on when the lights go out.