user profile avatar

Joshua Bruce

475

Bold Points

1x

Finalist

Bio

I was adopted at birth, so I have a unique perspective when it comes to my academic interests. My birth parents did not graduate from college, so I am passionate about learning new things and growing as an individual. I am driven by the desire to make both my adoptive and birth parents proud because they loved me enough to believe in me.   This desire for wisdom has led me to study automotive systems and then later pursuing a mechanical engineering degree. My desire is to slowly eliminate the gap between theory and application by designing more fuel-efficient vehicles and positively affect the way humans move from place to place.   To me wisdom and knowledge are two different things. My desire is to obtain wisdom, because wisdom is the proper application of knowledge to help society and serve people. For example, I can have all of the knowledge in the world. I can understand science, math and engineering, but if I do not properly use that knowledge to help people then I am just a smart fool. Wisdom is the difference. For example, I may have knowledge that the fire is hot, but wisdom tells me to use that knowledge to keep my hand away from the flame, and use it to cook food for another person.   This drive and this curiosity about automotive systems will not just lead me to gain knowledge about the subject, but it will lead me utilize that knowledge to better society, which will not only make me smart, but more importantly…..wise!

Education

Greensboro Middle College

High School
2023 - 2025

Miscellaneous

  • Desired degree level:

    Associate's degree program

  • Majors of interest:

    • Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians
  • Not planning to go to medical school
  • Career

    • Dream career field:

      Automotive

    • Dream career goals:

      My vocational goal is to ultimately become a mechanical engineer working in the design of new automobiles. I have been interested in automobiles and modes of travel since childhood. I plan to attend Guilford Technical Community College and major in Automotive Systems. I will then transfer to a four-year school and major in Mechanical Engineering. As a current senior in high school, I have already reached out to a local dealership who is willing to sponsor me and provide employment during my attendance at GTCC. I am a good student, and I have taken mostly honors classes during my high school years. It has not been easy, but I have worked hard. This hard worked will help me to achieve my goal of becoming a mechanical engineer because I know getting this degree will require hard work. I am a well-mannered compassionate person with good behavior, and I have no record of discipline in any of my schools. I am a servant -leader in the community. I serve by feeding the homeless population in Greensboro. I want to bring these leadership skills to the collegiate experience. Being a servant-leader will help me achieve my goal of becoming a mechanical engineer. This scholarship will help me to attend college and realize my goals and I am grateful for even the consideration of being chosen.

      Sports

      Football

      Varsity
      2021 – Present4 years

      Public services

      • Volunteering

        Impact Church — Helper
        2022 – Present

      Future Interests

      Advocacy

      Volunteering

      Philanthropy

      Entrepreneurship

      Hank Anderson Memorial Scholarship
      From an early age, I have been fascinated by the inner workings of machines—especially cars. Watching my father work with his tools wasn’t just a weekend chore; it was a glimpse into a world where hands-on problem-solving met engineering excellence. That spark of curiosity grew into a deep appreciation for automotive systems, and it ultimately led me to choose a career in the automotive trade. But my decision goes beyond personal interest; I am entering this field with a clear mission: to be a part of the transformation toward a more sustainable, efficient, and inclusive automotive industry. The automotive trade is not just a job; it’s a craft that requires precision, adaptability, and continuous learning. I’m drawn to it because it combines technical expertise with tangible results. There's something incredibly satisfying about diagnosing a complex issue and bringing a vehicle back to optimal performance. Cars are an essential part of many people’s daily lives, and being the person who ensures their safety and reliability carries both responsibility and pride. Moreover, I see this career as a smart and sustainable choice. As the industry evolves—integrating electric vehicles, hybrid systems, and increasingly advanced diagnostics—the demand for skilled, tech-savvy automotive technicians is growing rapidly. By building a strong foundation in traditional automotive systems and staying ahead of emerging technologies, I’ll position myself as both a capable technician and a forward-thinking contributor to the field. The automotive industry is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its history. Environmental concerns, digital innovation, and shifting consumer expectations are forcing the industry to reinvent itself. I see this not as a challenge, but as an incredible opportunity to help steer the future of automotive services in a more positive direction. As vehicles become increasingly computerized, there’s a growing need for technicians who are not only mechanically adept but also digitally literate. I plan to bridge that gap. I want to become a technician who can confidently interpret data from diagnostic software, troubleshoot complex electrical systems, and even understand coding elements in advanced vehicle systems. This commitment to innovation will allow me to work on cutting-edge vehicles and help customers navigate the transition to newer, smarter cars. Another important aspect of my mission is to make the automotive industry more accessible and inclusive. I believe everyone should feel welcomed and respected when they walk into a repair shop—regardless of their background, gender, or level of automotive knowledge. I’ve seen how intimidating or dismissive some experiences can be, particularly for women and underrepresented communities. As a technician, I will strive to create an environment where transparency, fairness, and education are prioritized. I want to be known as someone who takes the time to explain repairs in plain language, offers honest recommendations, and treats every customer with dignity. My plan is not only to grow into a skilled and respected technician but to lead by example in shaping a better future for the automotive world. That means embracing lifelong learning, upholding the highest standards of ethics and service, and pushing for change where it's needed most. Whether it’s helping a single mother keep her car running reliably, ensuring an EV is performing at peak efficiency, or mentoring the next generation of tradespeople, I’ll take pride in knowing that my work matters. In the end, I am not just choosing an automotive trade career—I’m choosing to be part of something bigger. And I’m ready to get to work.
      Marcus Matias Scholarship
      From an early age, I have been fascinated by the inner workings of machines—especially cars. Watching my father work with his tools wasn’t just a weekend chore; it was a glimpse into a world where hands-on problem-solving met engineering excellence. That spark of curiosity grew into a deep appreciation for automotive systems, and it ultimately led me to choose a career in the automotive trade. But my decision goes beyond personal interest; I am entering this field with a clear mission: to be a part of the transformation toward a more sustainable, efficient, and inclusive automotive industry. The automotive trade is not just a job; it’s a craft that requires precision, adaptability, and continuous learning. I’m drawn to it because it combines technical expertise with tangible results. There's something incredibly satisfying about diagnosing a complex issue and bringing a vehicle back to optimal performance. Cars are an essential part of many people’s daily lives, and being the person who ensures their safety and reliability carries both responsibility and pride. Moreover, I see this career as a smart and sustainable choice. As the industry evolves—integrating electric vehicles, hybrid systems, and increasingly advanced diagnostics—the demand for skilled, tech-savvy automotive technicians is growing rapidly. By building a strong foundation in traditional automotive systems and staying ahead of emerging technologies, I’ll position myself as both a capable technician and a forward-thinking contributor to the field. The automotive industry is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its history. Environmental concerns, digital innovation, and shifting consumer expectations are forcing the industry to reinvent itself. I see this not as a challenge, but as an incredible opportunity to help steer the future of automotive services in a more positive direction. As vehicles become increasingly computerized, there’s a growing need for technicians who are not only mechanically adept but also digitally literate. I plan to bridge that gap. I want to become a technician who can confidently interpret data from diagnostic software, troubleshoot complex electrical systems, and even understand coding elements in advanced vehicle systems. This commitment to innovation will allow me to work on cutting-edge vehicles and help customers navigate the transition to newer, smarter cars. Another important aspect of my mission is to make the automotive industry more accessible and inclusive. I believe everyone should feel welcomed and respected when they walk into a repair shop—regardless of their background, gender, or level of automotive knowledge. I’ve seen how intimidating or dismissive some experiences can be, particularly for women and underrepresented communities. As a technician, I will strive to create an environment where transparency, fairness, and education are prioritized. I want to be known as someone who takes the time to explain repairs in plain language, offers honest recommendations, and treats every customer with dignity. My plan is not only to grow into a skilled and respected technician but to lead by example in shaping a better future for the automotive world. That means embracing lifelong learning, upholding the highest standards of ethics and service, and pushing for change where it's needed most. Whether it’s helping a single mother keep her car running reliably, ensuring an EV is performing at peak efficiency, or mentoring the next generation of tradespeople, I’ll take pride in knowing that my work matters. In the end, I am not just choosing an automotive trade career—I’m choosing to be part of something bigger. And I’m ready to get to work.
      Chip Miller Memorial Scholarship
      From an early age, I have been fascinated by the inner workings of machines—especially cars. Watching my father work with his tools wasn’t just a weekend chore; it was a glimpse into a world where hands-on problem-solving met engineering excellence. That spark of curiosity grew into a deep appreciation for automotive systems, and it ultimately led me to choose a career in the automotive trade. But my decision goes beyond personal interest; I am entering this field with a clear mission: to be a part of the transformation toward a more sustainable, efficient, and inclusive automotive industry. The automotive trade is not just a job; it’s a craft that requires precision, adaptability, and continuous learning. I’m drawn to it because it combines technical expertise with tangible results. There's something incredibly satisfying about diagnosing a complex issue and bringing a vehicle back to optimal performance. Cars are an essential part of many people’s daily lives, and being the person who ensures their safety and reliability carries both responsibility and pride. Moreover, I see this career as a smart and sustainable choice. As the industry evolves—integrating electric vehicles, hybrid systems, and increasingly advanced diagnostics—the demand for skilled, tech-savvy automotive technicians is growing rapidly. By building a strong foundation in traditional automotive systems and staying ahead of emerging technologies, I’ll position myself as both a capable technician and a forward-thinking contributor to the field. The automotive industry is undergoing one of the most significant transformations in its history. Environmental concerns, digital innovation, and shifting consumer expectations are forcing the industry to reinvent itself. I see this not as a challenge, but as an incredible opportunity to help steer the future of automotive services in a more positive direction. As vehicles become increasingly computerized, there’s a growing need for technicians who are not only mechanically adept but also digitally literate. I plan to bridge that gap. I want to become a technician who can confidently interpret data from diagnostic software, troubleshoot complex electrical systems, and even understand coding elements in advanced vehicle systems. This commitment to innovation will allow me to work on cutting-edge vehicles and help customers navigate the transition to newer, smarter cars. Another important aspect of my mission is to make the automotive industry more accessible and inclusive. I believe everyone should feel welcomed and respected when they walk into a repair shop—regardless of their background, gender, or level of automotive knowledge. I’ve seen how intimidating or dismissive some experiences can be, particularly for women and underrepresented communities. As a technician, I will strive to create an environment where transparency, fairness, and education are prioritized. I want to be known as someone who takes the time to explain repairs in plain language, offers honest recommendations, and treats every customer with dignity. My plan is not only to grow into a skilled and respected technician but to lead by example in shaping a better future for the automotive world. That means embracing lifelong learning, upholding the highest standards of ethics and service, and pushing for change where it's needed most. Whether it’s helping a single mother keep her car running reliably, ensuring an EV is performing at peak efficiency, or mentoring the next generation of tradespeople, I’ll take pride in knowing that my work matters. In the end, I am not just choosing an automotive trade career—I’m choosing to be part of something bigger. And I’m ready to get to work.
      Anthony McPherson Memorial Automotive Scholarship
      I have a close family friend that recently spent over one year in jail for driving under the influence. She was involved in a racing accident that resulted in another person dying. She lost her job, and now she is starting over. On top of all of this, she has to live with the fact that her involvement may have cost another person their life. DUIs affect families, friends, pets, and even strangers. However, I believe they are preventable. All cars can be outfitted with a breathalyzer. Eventually, it would be as common as buckling your seatbelt or turning the keys. Privacy issues, aside, it would save lives and prevent terrible loss and pain that affect families on a daily basis. To me, losing s little privacy and convenience is worth saving lives. As a society, we have to get to the point of utilizing technology to save lives in all aspects. This is no different than going through an airport scanner what can see under your clothes and check for weapons. People and human life are worth the sacrifice.
      Joshua Bruce Student Profile | Bold.org