The skilled trade that I am currently studying is construction management, a field that can combine hands-on building knowledge with leadership planning, and problem-solving skills. I chose this trade because construction has always been a big part of my life, something I've loved, respected and wanted to make a career out of. I've always Liked the idea of creating something real and something that will last. Construction is the backbone of every community, and being part of that process has given me a great sense of purpose. Studying construction management allows me to combine my technical skills with leadership, giving me the opportunity to lead projects from the start and make sure that they are being built safely, efficiently, and with pride. I plan to make a long-term career in this trade because construction is more than a job to me it's a path that can lead toward financial independence, growth and service. My goal is to work for a company after graduation, gain experience, and eventually start my own construction business by the time I'm twenty-five. I want to create a company that will value craftmanship, safety, and integrity, and one that gives young workers like me opportunities to grow in the trades. Construction is a field that will always be needed. Communities depend on skilled workers to build homes, schools, hospitals and infrastructure. Being part of that impact motivates me to keep learning and improving I know I will be successful in this trade because I have a strong work ethic, determination and I am willing to learn, these are qualities that the trade demands. Throughout high school into college, I've been able to balance school, work, and personal responsibilities, which has taught me discipline and time management. I'm hands on detail oriented and not afraid of hard. I take a lot of happiness in doing things the right way, even when it takes longer or requires more effort. I'm also committed to continuous improvement. Construction is always evolving with new materials, technologies, and safety standards and I'm very excited to be able to grow along with the industry. My long term vision, combined with my drive to build something meaningful, gives me confidence that I will excel. To me, a successful life is one that has purpose, resilience, and contribution. Success means working in a field im passionate about, supporting a family, and building a stable future.

A little about me: I'm a 17-year-old African American male from way up north in a quaint town in South Dakota called Britton. I got two great sisters, two loving parents, and a rowdy dog. I come from a place where it's an hour from anywhere and there's more cows than there are people. My primary goal is to become a certified project manager. Construction management fascinates me, not only because of the steps involved but also the critical role construction managers play in society. From building a house up starting from just a blueprint to erecting skyscrapers that touch the clouds, Construction managers are essential to our modern way of life. I aspire to master the skills necessary to excel in this field mixing technical knowledge with problem-solving skill. By doing so i hope to contribute significantly to my community. In addition to technical skills, I aspire to develop strong leadership qualities. My vision reaches beyond being just laborer on the job, I want to lead teams, mentor apprentices, and eventually start my own construction company. I believe that the trades are an excellent place for entrepreneurship, and i see myself creating a company that not only provides high quality service but also prioritizes environmental responsibility and community engagement. I want to empower others underrepresented in the field by offering apprenticeships and training programs, ensuring that the next generation of tradesman is well equipped to carry on. Receiving this scholarship would alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with my education and training. It would provide me with the opportunity to gather the tools, certifications, and resources I need without the looming anxiety of financial strain. With this support, I can fully immerse myself in my studies and practical training, focusing on my skills and knowledge to become an exceptional manager. Furthermore, this scholarship would enable me to participate in additional seminars and industry conferences. Staying updated on the latest advancements in construction management is crucial for me as i am eager to expand knowledge beyond the classroom. BY attending these events i can network with professionals in the field, learn from their experiences and stay at the front of industry trends. But beyond my personal growth, I am deeply committed to giving back to my community. If granted this scholarship. In conclusion, my goals and aspirations in the trades revolve around becoming a certified construction manager, developing strong leadership qualities, and giving back to my community, This scholarship would not only alleviate student debt but also give the me to pursue my dreams with focus and dedication, i am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and grateful for the opportunity to be considered for this scholarship. With your support, I am confident that i can achieve great things in the trades and make a lasting difference in the lives of others.