Too often, trade careers are overlooked, even though they are the backbone of our communities. From a young age, I saw how important skilled work is, not just in keeping things running, but in providing stability for families. That understanding, along with my own background, is what inspired me to pursue a career in the automotive trades. My name is Israel, and I am a first-generation Mexican-American student. I am the oldest of four siblings and grew up in a low-income household with parents who immigrated from Mexico. My parents made constant sacrifices to make sure our family had what it needed. Watching their dedication taught me the value of hard work and responsibility early on. Opportunity was not always easy to come by, which made me determined to build a future where my effort could directly shape my success. I found that path through the trades. My interest began with cars and engines and grew as I realized how much problem-solving, skill, and dedication the automotive field requires. I graduated from the Auto Technology program at the Regional Occupational Center in May 2025. When I entered the program, I had little experience with automotive work and was placed into a second-year class, which challenged me from the start. Instead of letting that discourage me, I stayed eager to learn. I took on whatever tasks were available, from cleaning the shop to working on vehicles, and even small side jobs like fixing a weed cutter for my teacher. Every task taught me something new and helped me grow. During my time at ROC, I worked on customer vehicles and learned how to diagnose problems correctly. I was selected for the competition team and earned first place in precision measuring, second place in electrical systems, along with recognition at SkillsUSA competitions. These experiences showed me that determination and consistency matter just as much as talent. One of the biggest obstacles I faced came when my father was injured at work and could not work for nearly a year. During that time, my mother worked two jobs, and I got my first job to help support my family. That experience taught me resilience and pushed me to take my education and future seriously. I am currently attending UTI Long Beach, where I am continuing my training and working toward completing the BMW FastTrack program. My long-term goal is to work for Porsche, even if that means moving out of state and leaving my hometown to pursue advanced training. To me, skilled work matters because anyone can do a basic task like changing oil or removing a few lug nuts, but skilled work goes beyond that. It’s the difference between being a mechanic and being a technician—it’s not just replacing a part, but diagnosing what failed, where it failed, and why it failed. This scholarship would help me focus fully on learning, without the stress of trying to find ways to save money to pay off a large tuition.

My name is Israel, and I am a first-generation Mexican-American student pursuing a career in the automotive trades. I am the oldest of four siblings in a low-income household, raised by parents who came to the United States from Mexico and worked hard to support our family. Growing up, I saw firsthand what sacrifice and determination look like. Watching my parents push through challenges taught me the importance of responsibility, work ethic, and never taking opportunities for granted. My interest in the trades began with cars, especially engines. I have always enjoyed understanding how things work and learning by doing. The automotive field stood out to me because it allows me to work with my hands, solve problems, and see real results from my effort. I found that I learn best in hands-on environments, and the trades give people the chance to earn their skills through practice and commitment rather than just sitting in a classroom. I graduated from the Auto Technology program at the Regional Occupational Center (ROC) in May 2025. When I first entered the program, I was placed into a second-year class, which pushed me out of my comfort zone. I came in with little automotive experience, but I was always willing to learn and try something new. I started wherever I was needed, from cleaning the shop to working on cars, and even taking on small jobs like fixing a weed cutter for my teacher. No matter the task, I treated it as a chance to learn and improve, which helped me become one of the most improved students in the program. While at ROC, I gained hands-on experience working on customer vehicles and learning how to properly diagnose problems. I was selected for the competition team, where I earned first place in precision measuring, first place in tools and parts identification, second place in electrical systems, and recognition at local and state SkillsUSA competitions. These experiences taught me the importance of accuracy, focus, and teamwork, and they helped build my confidence in the trade. My motivation grew even stronger when my father was injured at work and could not work for almost a year. During that time, my mother worked two jobs to support our family. I got my first job to help at home, which showed me how quickly life can change and how important it is to stay strong and keep moving forward. That experience made me take my education and future more seriously. In July, I began attending UTI Long Beach to continue my training. My goal is to gain advanced skills and complete the BMW FastTrack program as a step toward working for Porsche. I am willing to move out of state and leave my hometown if it means learning more and starting my career at a higher level. For me, growth means being uncomfortable and taking risks to build a better future. Pursuing the trades is more than a career choice for me. It is a way to support my family, take pride in my work, and build a future through hard work, dedication, and continuous learning.

My name is Israel, and I am a graduating senior from South High School in Bakersfield, CA. I will be pursuing automotive technology at UTI Long Beach. I have already been enrolled since August 2024, which shows how dedicated I have been to the automotive field. I chose UTI Long Beach because I want to specialize in areas that others aren't. I am not only taking Auto Technology, but I am also included in EV Technology and will be taking specialized training from BMWFastTrack. German engineering has always fascinated me, but that's not entirely what I'm going for. I want to be a part of being in their Motorsport teams as a lead technician, whether it be Audi, BMW, or Porsche. I want to be in those innovative teams that always change, always advance much quicker than others, and that just intrigues my ambitions to learn and be a part of that class. Along those lines, Porsche offers their PTAP program for graduates from UTI who stand out from their class, and I know that I'll be at their door knocking before they even know it. I didn't pursue this trade just because I like cars, I have been in my Automotive Technology program here at the Regional Occupational Center since my Junior year. These past two years, I not only joined as someone who had never worked on cars before, but I also came out as a high-entry-level technician. I recently graduated from ROC on May 21, earning a Most Outstanding Student Plaque from all the Automotive classes. These and many more achievements I'm incredibly proud of didn't just fall into my hands. They came to me with dedication, perseverance, resilience, and, nonetheless, the support of my family, friends, and community around me.

Why have you chosen your career path? I chose my career path in the automotive field out of curiosity and a need to overcome. I've always been fascinated by how things work—whether machines, electronics, or anything else I could get my hands on, I'd eventually take it apart to see what was inside. That curiosity wasn't just about breaking things down and getting scolded by my parents. It was about understanding, learning, and putting them back together. Cars especially caught my attention. The way engines roared and parts move in perfect rhythm sparked something in me. Over time, that spark became a fire in my engine, pushing me to chase more profound knowledge of automotive technology. How did you choose which school to attend or who to apprentice under? My final decision to attend school to get a higher education was UTI Long Beach. I never thought I would go to a trade school until I learned about the skills and time there compared to a typical college. However, I would say that trade school is more expensive than college because it's a short period and is considered a "For-profit" school. I come from a low-income family of 6, so the financial burden will be heavily on me and my parents during my time there. However, I chose UTI Long Beach specifically because they offer manufacturer-specific training. I have been accepted into the Auto II & EV Technology and BMW FastTrack. Acquiring this specific training will give me an advantage in German vehicles and enable me to find a job in this area of expertise. Who was your biggest inspiration? My biggest inspiration was my parents. Why? My parents gave up everything they had to immigrate to this country, to give their children a better life, and to be able to show that their sacrifice would make a change in the world. They have always worked hard and supported me and my siblings, even though they had little. I am the oldest child of 4 and have constantly been reminded that I am the role model for my siblings, and I take that with pride. Being the oldest means I've experienced everything firsthand before them and always take advantage of it. Because I might struggle, but it will allow me to learn and pass it on to my siblings in hopes that even they can become better than I. But it doesn't stop within my family, I also love helping others, specifically with students who also want to learn about the automotive field and those who are curious. My parents' sacrifices and resilience have brought me here to this point in my life, where I will overcome and become the future of my family and the future of the automotive industry. Is there anything else you want us to know? Additional information about me is that I come from a low-income family of 6. My dad doesn't have a consistent job due to certain limitations of the injuries he sustained recently from work, and his job also changes along with the seasons. Trade school tuition is expensive because FAFSA covers only a certain amount of tuition. I also do not have housing yet, and I don't have relatives nearby. UTI doesn't have on-campus housing like dorms, but is affiliated with housing services. However, those also come at a hefty price due to the location. I am currently trying to get into work-study to pay off my tuition promptly and apply to as many scholarships and opportunities as possible to relieve my financial burden.

Since I was a kid, I have always been fascinated by cars. I loved how they looked, how their engines sounded. At the time, I didn’t understand how they worked, but I knew I wanted to learn. As I got older, my curiosity grew, and I found myself wanting to take things apart just to see how they worked. But, I never consider a career in the automotive field until high school, when I had the opportunity to join my school’s Auto Technology program. Coming from a first-generation Mexican-American family, I learned the value of hard work and perseverance from my parents. They came to the U.S. with little but worked tirelessly to provide for our family. Their sacrifices motivated me to find a career that I was passionate about and that could also give me a stable future. When I joined my high school’s automotive program, I was determined to make the most of it. At first, it was challenging. I was placed in a second-year class with students who already had experience, while I was starting from zero. I had to work harder than everyone else just to keep up. But instead of giving up, I pushed myself. I spent extra time studying, asking questions, and practicing every chance I got. Over time, I became one of my teacher’s best students and even earned a spot on our program’s Competition Team. Through competitions, I was able to prove my skills, winning first place in precision measuring, tools and parts identification, and second place in electrical systems, also including that I qualified for state conference for SkillsUSA. These experiences gave me the confidence that this was the right career for me. What I love most about automotive technology is the challenge of diagnosing and repairing vehicles. Every car is different, and every problem requires patience and problem-solving. Whether it’s working on an engine, troubleshooting electrical issues, or learning how to use specialty tools, I enjoy every part of the process. There is always something new to learn, and that excites me. My goal is to specialize in high-performance and luxury cars, especially German brands like Porsche. I plan to continue my education at UTI, where I will be part of the Automotive and BMW FastTrack program. In hopes of being accepted into Porsches PTAP program and eventually to work for Porsche’s motorsport team and be part of something bigger than myself. Choosing automotive technology has been one of the best decisions I have made. It’s a field that excites me, challenges me, and pushes me to keep learning. I look forward to turning my passion into a lifelong career and making my family proud.

Cars have always caught my attention, but I never really understood them until I started learning about how they work. At first, I didn’t know anything about engines, transmissions, or even basic maintenance, but as I spent more time around cars, I realized how much I enjoyed working on them. There’s something about using my hands, taking things apart, and putting them back together that just feels right. Engines, especially, amaze me. The way they sound, the way they create power, and how every little part plays a role in making a car move—it all interests me. What I love most about this trade is that there’s always more to learn. Every car brand builds their vehicles differently, and I find it exciting to see how each one approaches engineering. My biggest goal is to work on high-performance cars, especially Porsche, because I admire their design, technology, and success in racing. I know getting to that level will take a lot of effort, but I enjoy the challenge. Hard work doesn’t scare me because I’ve seen how my parents worked hard to support our family, and I want to do the same for myself. Beyond just working on cars, I also want to give back to my community. One of the biggest ways I plan to do this is by helping future students who are interested in the automotive trade. I know what it feels like to start with no experience, feeling unsure about whether you’re good enough or if you’ll ever understand everything. I want to be someone who helps guide students through that stage, whether it’s by mentoring, sharing advice, or even just encouraging them to keep going. If I can make it easier for someone else to get into this field, I want to do that. I also want to keep volunteering. I’ve helped at food banks, given out presents during Christmas, and helped clean my church before mass, and these experiences have shown me how much small actions can mean to people. Life is unpredictable, and I’ve seen firsthand how things can change overnight. My dad got hurt at work and couldn’t work for almost a year, so my mom had to work two jobs to keep us stable. That situation taught me that you never know what someone else is going through, which is why I want to keep helping whenever I can. In the end, my passion for cars is more than just a career—it’s something I truly enjoy, and I want to use what I learn to help others in the future. Whether it’s through my job, helping students, or volunteering, I want to make a difference, just like others have helped me along the way.

Being Mexican-American has shaped me in ways that go beyond just culture-it has defined my work ethic, my resilience, and my dreams. My parents came to this country with nothing but the hope of giving their children a better life. They didn't have the chance to go to college, but they worked tirelessly to make sure my siblings and I never went without food, clothes, or a roof over our heads. Watching them struggle yet never complain taught me that success isn't just about talent-it's about perseverance, sacrifice, and taking pride in your work. That lesson has stuck with me, and it's why I push myself every day to become the best version of myself. I chose to pursue automotive technology because I love cars, but more than that, I want to be part of something bigger. My goal is to work for Porsche's motorsport team, where I can be at the forefront of high-performance engineering. This dream isn't just about me-it's about proving that someone from a first-generation, low-income background can make it in an industry where few people look like me. Through my education at UTI and the BMW FastTrack program, I'm taking the steps necessary to build the skills and connections that will get me there. However, pursuing this path comes with financial challenges. My family of six lives on a limited income, and while my parents support my dreams, they cant afford to pay for my education. I've worked hard to earn my place in trade school, but without scholarships, the cost of tuition, tools, and living expenses would be overwhelming. This scholarship would ease that burden, allowing me to focus on my training without constantly worrying about how to make ends meet. My heritage has taught me that hard work and determination can open doors. I'm ready to walk through those doors-I just need the opportunity to do so. This scholarship would bring me one step closer to achieving my goals, not just for myself but for my family and for the younger generation who will see that anything is possible with dedication and perseverance.

Giving back to my community has shaped my life by teaching me the value of gratitude, compassion, and hard work. Growing up in a low-income, first-generation family, I’ve always understood the importance of helping others. My parents worked tirelessly to provide for me and my siblings, and their example has inspired me to do the same for those in need. Through volunteering, I have learned that even small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone’s life. One of the most meaningful experiences I’ve had was volunteering during the holiday season. I helped make sandwiches for the homeless during Thanksgiving and passed out presents and food bags for families in need during Christmas. Seeing the happiness and relief on people’s faces reminded me not to take anything for granted. I also volunteer at my church every Saturday, helping clean before mass. While these tasks may seem simple, they have shown me the importance of giving back, no matter how small the effort may seem. Giving back has also strengthened my determination to succeed. It has taught me that success isn’t just about what I achieve for myself, but also about how I can help others along the way. This mindset drives my educational goals as I prepare to attend Universal Technical Institute (UTI) in Long Beach. I have been accepted into their Automotive Technology program and the BMW FastTrack program, where I will gain hands-on experience with advanced vehicle diagnostics and repair. My goal is to become a highly skilled automotive technician, specializing in German vehicles. Eventually, I hope to work for Porsche’s motorsport team. UTI will provide the technical training and industry certifications I need to enter the workforce with confidence. Trade school is the best path for me because it allows me to focus directly on my passion without spending unnecessary years in a traditional college setting. Beyond my career, I hope to give back by mentoring future automotive students. I know how important it is to have guidance and support when pursuing a trade, and I want to help others the way my mentors and teachers have helped me. Whether through sharing my experiences, offering advice, or helping students explore their career options, I want to play a role in shaping the next generation of skilled technicians. Giving back to my community has shaped me into a person who values hard work, kindness, and the importance of education. It has motivated me to push forward, not only for my ouccess but also to be someone who can make a difference. As I pursue my education at UTI, I will carry these lessons with me, using them to build a future where I can support my family, achieve my career goals, and continue giving back to others.

I chose to pursue a trade career because I wanted to work with my hands, solve complex mechanical problems, and be part of an industry that keeps the world moving. Automotive technology has always fascinated me, especially the precision and innovation behind German engineering. My admiration for cars, particularly brands like Porsche, has driven me to learn everything I can about vehicle systems, diagnostics, and repairs. Unlike traditional academic paths, the trades offer a direct, hands-on approach to mastering a skill, and I knew this was the right path for me. As a first-generation Mexican-American student from a low-income family, I’ve had to work hard for every opportunity. My parents, who immigrated to the U.S. for a better life, instilled in me the values of perseverance and dedication. They never had the chance to pursue higher education, so I’ve made it my goal to not only gain the technical knowledge needed for my career but also to set an example for my younger siblings. Choosing the trades allows me to build a stable and rewarding future without the heavy financial burden of a four-year degree, and it allows me to do what I love—working on cars. Beyond my personal career goals, I care deeply about education accessibility and poverty alleviation. I’ve seen firsthand how limited resources can hold people back from reaching their full potential. That’s why I believe in making education—whether through trade schools, apprenticeships, or traditional institutions—more accessible to those who need it most. I want to help break the cycle of financial struggle by encouraging more people to explore careers in skilled trades, which provide stability and opportunities for growth. Giving back to my community has always been important to me. I’ve volunteered in various ways, including making sandwiches for the homeless, cleaning my church every Saturday before mass, and distributing food and gifts to families in need during the holiday season. These experiences have shown me the importance of compassion and service. In the future, I hope to mentor students interested in automotive technology, offering them the guidance and support I wish I had when I first started. Ultimately, my journey in the trades is about more than just fixing cars—it’s about using my skills to make a difference. Whether it’s ensuring a vehicle runs safely for a family, helping a struggling student find their path, or giving back to my community, I want my work to have a lasting impact. By continuing to learn, grow, and support others, I hope to contribute not just to the automotive industry but to the world around me.

Success is not just about reaching goals; it's about growing, making a difference, and achieving dreams through hard work. I see success in how much I learn, help others, and the legacy I will leave behind. I'm the eldest of four siblings in a low-income family and the first to attend and complete a technical school. My success is a big thank you to my parents, who sacrificed so I could have these chances. With my family's support and my dedication they always assure me that I will excel in the automotive field and anywhere I dedicate myself to. That's how my love for cars went from a dream to a reality with a purpose. I came in with very little knowledge about cars. But I learned that with the right mindset, you can do anything. Through hard work in ROC's Auto Technology program, I became one of the top students, joined the Competition Team, and won first place in Precision Measuring. What these experiences have taught me is discipline, working in a team, and always doing my best. They motivated me to continue my education at Universal Technical Institute (UTI) to focus on high-performance cars, especially BMW FastTrack or Porsche's motorsport training. However, success doesn’t come without some challenges. Money problems have always been close to our family. As the child of immigrant parents from Mexico who worked hard to support us, I’ve learned how important it is to be strong and clever. With all these challenges, the strong support of my parents and sacrifices have inspired me to aim high. My main goal is to work with Porsche's motorsport team in helping with advanced technology that will push progress in the car industry. This scholarship would help relieve some of the financial stressors that come along with pursuing higher education and will enable me to focus entirely on developing my skills and laying a foundation for a great career. More than the financial support it offers, this scholarship represents an opportunity to invest in my future and give back to the betterment of others. I have learned a lot from mentors and advice during my journey, so I want to help future students in the automotive trade. I hope to inspire others to follow their dreams and show that success can be achieved with hard work and determination. One of my dreams is to help young people in the automotive field—giving them the same kind of support and encouragement that helped me grow. Along with my goals for school and jobs, I spent time helping others. Some experiences that showed me the importance of gratitude and community are making sandwiches for the homeless, cleaning my church every week, and giving out food at Christmas. They bring home the point that success is truly gained through one's relationships with people, not solely by what one attains in life. This scholarship means more than just monetary aid; it's a requirement for me to fulfill my dreams and become an example. It will strengthen my education, enabling me to build up the skills and network that will be necessary to succeed. That is the support to attend SEMA shows, buy tools, and take advanced training to be able to work with leading automotive brands. Success is a learning journey, combined with giving back to the community, marked by milestones that celebrate the tireless efforts of my parents and the aspirations that lie ahead. This scholarship will go a long way in helping me achieve my goals and will encourage others to pursue their dreams with renewed vigor.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs has serious consequences. It’s a dangerous choice that puts the driver at risk and endangers the lives of others on the road. DUIs are a leading cause of traffic accidents. When a person drives under the influence, their reaction time is slowed, their coordination is reduced, and their ability to make decisions is compromised. These impairments make it significantly more likely for an accident to occur, which can lead to devastating outcomes. From a moral standpoint, preventing DUIs is a matter of recognizing our responsibility toward others. Driving while impaired demonstrates a disregard for the safety and well-being of others. Choosing to stay off the road if you’ve been drinking or using drugs is a rational decision that shows respect for other people’s lives. It is essential to understand that one careless decision can lead to unrepairable harm. Educating people on the consequences of impaired driving can encourage them to make responsible choices that keep themselves and others safe. Family and friends can remind each other of the moral obligation to drive sober, reinforcing the idea that it is not just about the law but about doing what’s right for everyone. On the technical side, some various tools and strategies can help prevent DUIs. Technology like IIDs can prevent a car from starting if the driver has alcohol in their system. These devices are especially helpful for individuals with prior DUI convictions. Additionally, portable breathalyzers allow individuals to measure their blood alcohol content and make informed decisions before getting behind the wheel. DUI checkpoints are another effective technical strategy. These checkpoints serve as a stop, making it more likely that impaired drivers will be caught and held accountable. Furthermore, the availability of carpooling services and public transportation provides a safe alternative to driving under the influence. By making it easier for people to access these services, we can reduce the number of possible DUIs. The effects of DUI's aren't just with the driver; it impact family, friends, and loved ones. Seeing someone close involved in a DUI situation can be heartbreaking, especially if they have a passion for cars. For those who love working on cars, like myself, the thought of getting into a DUI incident is painful. Cars are more than transportation, and they represent childhood, skill, passion, and love. Getting involved in a DUI is one of the worst possible things a car enthusiast could face, as it destroys the respect and love for driving. Family members often worry about the safety of their loved ones, just like my parents, and a DUI incident can shatter the trust they feel. Friends and family members can experience anxiety, disappointment, and shame, knowing that someone they care about made such a reckless decision and endangered the lives of others. In conclusion, driving under the influence has severe effects, but there are ways to prevent it. Approaching the issue from both moral and technical perspectives allows us to better understand and address the risks. Preventing DUIs is not only about obeying the law but also about taking care of those we love. By making responsible choices and using available resources, we can protect ourselves, our families, and our communities from the tragic consequences of impaired driving.

Higher education is the next step in my journey, both for personal growth and to honor my parents' sacrifices. My parents came to the United States with little, hoping to build a better life for us. They always reminded me that education could open doors and connections they never had. Watching them work hard for our family, I realized I have a chance to build a stable career that will make them proud. They don't want to see me suffer like they do, but I also don't want to see them suffer anymore. I want to pursue higher education because it will give me the skills and knowledge to achieve my goals and set an example for my younger siblings. Being the first in my family to go to college has challenges, but I’m committed to overcoming them. My parents weren’t familiar with how to research schools, understand financial aid, and fill out forms. I leaned on my high school counselors and teachers for guidance. They helped me with deadlines, explained scholarships, and encouraged me to apply for every opportunity. This support helped me stay focused and prepared, even when it felt overwhelming. I’ve also prepared for college by joining programs and clubs that helped me develop new skills. I joined my school’s Auto Technology program, where I learned about cars and how they work. Even though I was placed in a second-year class, I pushed myself to learn. At first, I felt behind compared to my classmates, but I stayed after class to practice, asked questions, and worked hard. Eventually, I earned a spot on our program’s Race Team and won first place in precision measuring at a competition. This experience taught me the value of hard work and showed me I could succeed when things are tough. As a first-generation student, I’ve also learned to be independent. I've had to become resourceful without family members who have gone through this process. I’ve learned to budget my time and manage my responsibilities, knowing college will require even more discipline. I’ve also learned to seek out resources and ask for help, whether from a teacher, classmate, or mentor. These experiences have prepared me for the challenges of college and given me the confidence to take on whatever comes next. I believe I’m a strong candidate for higher education because I’m determined to make the most of this opportunity. My parents worked hard to give me a better future, and I want to make them proud by pursuing a career in automotive technology. I’m excited to keep learning and develop my skills. I know college will help me reach my goals, and I’m ready to put in the work. I’m committed to pushing myself and using my education to create a better future for myself, my family, and my community. Higher education isn’t just a pathway to a job, it’s a way for me to grow and make a positive impact. By going to college, I’m investing in my future and showing my family that hard work and determination lead to success. I’m ready to take on the challenges of being a first-generation college student, and I’m excited for all the possibilities ahead.