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Hobbies and interests
Fishing
Cars and Automotive Engineering
Logan Smith
965
Bold Points1x
Finalist1x
Winner
Logan Smith
965
Bold Points1x
Finalist1x
WinnerBio
Slowly I see electric and hybrid cars taking over the streets. I can see the grease monkey breed is slowly dying out. California is even making a law to stop selling new combustion cars starting in 2035. Although I see the value in alternative fuel options, I don’t want car culture to fade away by 2035. Also, race tracks are slowly fading away like Sacramento Raceway and soon to be Laguna Seca Raceway. Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles that an older generation once knew. I want to be the guy at Cars and Coffee that when he rolls in, everybody’s jaw drops. I still want them to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. Hopefully I can inspire a young kid to follow in my footsteps to keep the breed alive
Education
Universal Technical Institute of California Inc
Trade SchoolMajors:
- Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technology/Technician, General
Oak Ridge High
High SchoolMiscellaneous
Desired degree level:
Trade School
Graduate schools of interest:
Transfer schools of interest:
Majors of interest:
- Mechanic and Repair Technologies/Technicians, Other
Career
Dream career field:
Automotive
Dream career goals:
Public services
Volunteering
El Dorado Hills Community Service District — Promote and teach fishing to children at the El Dorado Hills Fishing Derby.2021 – 2024Volunteering
California State Parks — Park beautification and trail maintenance.2020 – 2024Volunteering
CAST for Kids — Teach special needs children and their family how to fish.2022 – 2023
NE1 NE-Dream Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Sacramento Kings stadium. I can still hear those screaming, racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a now high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I began to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. It was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota truck. When I look at those almost 30-year-old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I want to live in a time when if you have motor problems, you rebuild a carburetor or figure it out.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute of Sacramento near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day. I have realized my high school goal of being accepted to the dual automotive and diesel program at UTI. I am now learning the skills and gaining the knowledge to begin a career in the automotive and diesel industry.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history my way. I know I will be able to succeed in my endeavors as fixing engines is my passion and not a job requirement.
Uniball's Skilled Trades Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first live show I went to was a Monster Jam show. I can still hear those screaming, racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born. My parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in; it remains a favorite. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I began to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. It was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota truck. When I look at those almost 30-year-old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I want to live in a time when if you have motor problems, you rebuild a carburetor or figure it out.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute of Sacramento near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day. I have realized my high school goal of being accepted to the dual automotive and diesel program at UTI. I am now learning the skills and gaining the knowledge to begin a career in the automotive and diesel industry.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history my way. I know I will be able to succeed in my endeavors as fixing engines is my passion and not a job requirement.
My plans after I graduate from UTI are to find a position that will increase my skill and knowledge in my field. I know I will need to work my way up in the industry. I picture myself working on vehicle maintenance in any capacity. With a background in automotive and diesel I would be happy to work anywhere from an auto dealership, to a smaller repair shop, to a larger company that repairs school buses, mail trucks, big rigs, to even construction equipment or fork lifts. I am up for any challenge. As a kid growing up with a learning disability and tic disorder, I have learned that passion, positivity and hard work will help me push through anything.
Grover Scholarship Fund
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Sacramento Kings stadium. I can still hear those screaming, racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a now high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I began to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. It was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota truck. When I look at those almost 30-year-old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I want to live in a time when if you have motor problems, you rebuild a carburetor or figure it out.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute of Sacramento near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day. I have realized my high school goal of being accepted to the dual automotive and diesel program at UTI. I am now learning the skills and gaining the knowledge to begin a career in the automotive and diesel industry.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history my way. This opportunity would help me to afford my tuition at UTI and the transportation to get there every day for 18 months.
Koehler Family Trades and Engineering Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Sacramento Kings stadium. I can still hear those screaming, racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a now high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I began to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. It was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota truck. When I look at those almost 30-year-old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I want to live in a time when if you have motor problems, you rebuild a carburetor or figure it out.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute of Sacramento near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day. I have realized my high school goal of being accepted to the dual automotive and diesel program at UTI. I am now learning the skills and gaining the knowledge to begin a career in the automotive and diesel industry.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history my way. I know I will be able to succeed in my endeavors as fixing engines is my passion and not a job requirement.
Scott W. Trades Memorial Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Sacramento Kings stadium. I can still hear those screaming, racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a now high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I began to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. It was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota truck. When I look at those almost 30-year-old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I want to live in a time when if you have motor problems, you rebuild a carburetor or figure it out.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute of Sacramento near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day. I have realized my high school goal of being accepted to the dual automotive and diesel program at UTI. I am now learning the skills and gaining the knowledge to begin a career in the automotive and diesel industry.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history my way. I know I will be able to succeed in my endeavors as fixing engines is my passion and not a job requirement.
My plan after graduation from UTI is to seek out opportunities with vehicle maintenance. With my background in automotive and diesel there will be many potential career paths I can follow. I know I will need to work my way up in the industry. I am willing to work hard at any position that will increase my skill and knowledge. I could work anywhere from a car dealership, to a smaller repair shop to a larger company that repairs school buses, mail trucks, big rigs or even fork lifts or construction equipment. I can't wait to do my small part!
Russell Koci Skilled Trade Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Sacramento Kings stadium. I can still hear those screaming, racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a now high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I began to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. It was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota truck. When I look at those almost 30-year-old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I want to live in a time when if you have motor problems, you rebuild a carburetor or figure it out.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute of Sacramento near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day. I have realized my high school goal of being accepted to the dual automotive and diesel program at UTI. I am now learning the skills and gaining the knowledge to begin a career in the automotive and diesel industry.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history my way. I know I will be able to succeed in my endeavors as fixing engines is my passion and not a job requirement.
A successful life to me would include me working on engines in any form. There are so many different career paths available with an automotive and diesel background. I know I will probably need to work my way up in the field. I would like to work on vehicle maintenance, from dealerships, to private repair shops, to larger companies that maintain school buses, mail trucks or large big rigs that transport necessities. I am not opposed to anything that expands my skills and knowledge. I like knowing that in my small part I will be helping the world go round.
Rod Tucci Memorial Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Kings stadium, before they had built the Golden One Center. I can still hear those screaming racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a now high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. Well, it was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota. When I look at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I want to live in a time when if you have motor problems, you rebuild a carburetor. Almost every Saturday morning I try to make it to Folsom Cars and Coffee to check out some sweet rides. I have an 18-year-old pickup truck that I constantly fix small issues on and this is where I feel most at ease and find my joy.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history my way. I have been accepted to the dual automotive and diesel program at UTI of Sacramento. With my knowledge and skill gained in this program I will be able to keep the vehicles of the world running and the people in them safe.
Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Kings stadium, before they had built the Golden One Center. I can still hear those screaming racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a now high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. Well, it was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota. When I look at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I want to live in a time when if you had motor problems, you rebuild a carburetor. I learn to tear down motors and piece them back together and hopefully have them run.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history my way. I have been accepted to the dual automotive and diesel program at UTI. I plan to utilize my skill and knowledge from my education to help my community by keeping vehicles in our community running well to keep others safe while our world goes around.
Redefining Victory Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Kings stadium, before they had built the Golden One Center. I can still hear those screaming racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a now high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. Well, it was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota. When I look at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I want to live in a time when if you have motor problems, you rebuild a carburetor.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history my way.
This opportunity would help me to be able to afford my education that is needed to accomplish my goals. I have been accepted to the dual automotive and diesel program at Universal Technical Institute of Sacramento. I would like to utilize the knowledge and skill learned by helping others in my community. I can see myself in many potential positions, from maintaining diesel trucks that transport important supplies across country, to vehicle maintenance in my local auto repair shop for my neighbors to repairing large construction tractors or sanitation vehicles. I would be happy to put forth my efforts in any way to contribute. I see all of these options as learning potentials to perfect my craft as well. My passion belongs to this industry and I appreciate your consideration to assist me to achieve this.
Frederick and Bernice Beretta Memorial Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Kings stadium, before they had built the Golden One Center. I can still hear those screaming racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a now high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. Well, it was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota. When I look at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I wanted to live in a time when if you had motor problems, you rebuilt a carburetor. Almost every Saturday morning I try to make it to Folsom Cars and Coffee to check out some sweet rides. I have an 18-year-old pickup truck that I constantly fix small issues on..
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history my way. My acceptance to the dual automotive and diesel program of UTI has started me towards this goal.
David Hinsdale Memorial Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Kings stadium, before they had built the Golden One Center. I can still hear those screaming racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a now high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. Well, it was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota. When I look at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I want to live in a time when if you have motor problems, you rebuild a carburetor.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day. I have started toward that goal with my acceptance to UTI in their dual automotive and diesel program. I will graduate in February of 2026 and then be able to utilize my expanding skills and knowledge in this industry where I have found my passion.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history my way.
John Young 'Pursue Your Passion' Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Kings stadium, before they had built the Golden One Center. I can still hear those screaming racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a now high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. Well, it was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota. When I look at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I wanted to live in a time when if you had motor problems, you rebuilt a carburetor. Almost every Saturday morning I try to make it to Folsom Cars and Coffee to check out some sweet rides. I have an 18-year-old pickup truck that I constantly fix small issues on. I’m even in an auto shop class, where I learn to tear down motors and piece them back together and hopefully have them run.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history my way.
Thomas Mashig Foundation Trade School Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Sacramento Kings stadium. I can still hear those screaming, racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a now high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. Well, it was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota truck. When I look at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I want to live in a time when if you have motor problems, you rebuild a carburetor.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day. I have started towards this goal by being accepted to Universal Technical Institute of Sacramento in their dual automotive and diesel program. I will graduate in February of 2026.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history my way.
I have given back to my community in recent years through my favorite pass time of fishing. In high school I participated in our bass fishing team. I was able to teach children how to fish responsibly with our community service district annual fishing derby and our International Sportsman Expo. I also volunteered with CAST for kids taking out children with special needs and their families and teaching them how to fish and enjoy a day of peace. I have also volunteered with State Parks for trail work and park beautification to give back to our environment so all generations can continue to enjoy the outdoors. I hope to continue to give back to my community after graduating from UTI in the auto industry with my advancing skills and increasing knowledge of the industry.
Chip Miller Memorial Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Kings stadium, before they had built the Golden One Center. I can still hear those screaming racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a now high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. Well, it was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota Tacoma. When I look at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I want to live in a time when if you had motor problems, you rebuilt a carburetor. Almost every Saturday morning I try to make it to Folsom Cars and Coffee to check out some sweet rides. I have an 18-year-old pickup truck that I constantly fix small issues on. I was even in an auto shop class, where I learned to tear down motors and piece them back together and hopefully have them run.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day. I am now living out my dream and attending the UTI campus that I toured my junior year in high school.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history my way.
Tim Williams Automotive Student Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Kings stadium, before they had built the Golden One Center. I can still hear those screaming, racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a recent high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. Well, it was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota. When I look at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I wanted to live in a time when if you had motor problems, you rebuilt a carburetor. Almost every Saturday morning I try to make it to Folsom Cars and Coffee to check out some sweet rides. I have an 18-year-old pickup truck that I constantly fix small issues on. I just completed an auto shop class the last two years of high school, where I learned to tear down motors and piece them back together and hopefully have them run.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day. Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history my way. This scholarship would help me to pay my tuition at the Universal Technical Institute of Sacramento where I have been accepted and plan to start in August.
Wolf Gustaveson Memorial Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Kings stadium, before they had built the Golden One Center. I can still hear those screaming racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a soon high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. Well, it was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota. When I look at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I wanted to live in a time when if you had motor problems, you rebuilt a carburetor. Almost every Saturday morning I try to make it to Folsom Cars and Coffee to check out some sweet rides. I have an 18-year-old pickup truck that I constantly fix small issues on. I’m even in an auto shop class, where I learn to tear down motors and piece them back together and hopefully have them run.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history in my way.
Hamiltonville Farm Scholarship
WinnerWhen I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Kings stadium, before they had built the Golden One Center. I can still hear those screaming racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a soon high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. Well, it was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota. When I look at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I wanted to live in a time when if you had motor problems, you rebuilt a carburetor. Almost every Saturday morning I try to make it to Folsom Cars and Coffee to check out some sweet rides. I have an 18-year-old pickup truck that I constantly fix small issues on. I’m even in an auto shop class, where I learn to tear down motors and piece them back together and hopefully have them run again.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history in my way.
This scholarship will assist me in the financial aspect of my education at Universal Technical Institute Sacramento, where I have been accepted. I want to help my parents by contributing to my own education since I have other siblings in the home they are responsible for. I want to help do my part and my minimum wage job will not accomplish this alone, especially as I attend school full time. I thank you for this opportunity!
Our Destiny Our Future Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Kings stadium, before they had built the Golden One Center. I can still hear those screaming racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a soon high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. Well, it was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota. When I look at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I wanted to live in a time when if you had motor problems, you rebuilt a carburetor. Almost every Saturday morning I try to make it to Folsom Cars and Coffee to check out some sweet rides. I have an 18-year-old pickup truck that I constantly fix small issues on. I’m even in an auto shop class, where I learn to tear down motors and piece them back together and hopefully have them run.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history in my way.
I have been accepted to the Universal Technical Institute of Sacramento in the Automotive and Diesel Technology program. I want to get back to basics with my impact on the world by providing transportation by any means to our community. Whether traveling by car, bus, taxi, truck, subway, boat or the like, everyone needs a safe and reliable mode of transportation to get them to school, work or anywhere to enjoy life. I would love to be the mechanic to help keep people safe and thriving.
Frederick and Bernice Beretta Memorial Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Kings stadium. I can still hear those screaming racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a soon high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. Well, it was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota. When I look at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I wanted to live in a time when if you had motor problems, you rebuilt a carburetor. Almost every Saturday morning I try to make it to Folsom Cars and Coffee to check out some sweet rides. I have an 18-year-old pickup truck that I constantly fix small issues on. I’m even in an auto shop class, where I learn to tear down motors and piece them back together and hopefully have them run.
My junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. This became especially clear after seeing the unbalanced statistics of how many new mechanics are available to replace retiring mechanics. I was recently accepted to UTI. I’ve always wanted to be a part of the auto industry, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would allow me to do that all day.
Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles, that an older generation once knew. I still want kids to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. I want to give back a piece of history in my way.
John Young 'Pursue Your Passion' Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show. I can still hear those screaming, racing v8s echoing through that stadium. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. When I looked at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it made me want to time travel to when times were simple. I wanted to live in a time when if you had motor problems, you rebuilt a carburetor. Almost every Saturday morning I try to make it to the Folsom Cars and Coffee to check out some sweet rides. I have an 18 year old pickup truck that I constantly fix small issues on. Also I have a bass fishing boat from 1986, that has even more issues that I have to fix. I’m even in an auto shop class, where I learn to tear down motors and piece them back together and hopefully have them run.
My Junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of the Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. My parents have always been big preachers of doing what you love, and this might be it. I’ve always wanted to be a part of an industry like cars, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would have me do that all day.
Slowly I see electric and hybrid cars taking over the streets, I can see the grease monkey breed is slowly dying out. California is even making a law to stop selling new combustion cars starting in 2035. Although I see the value in alternative fuel options, I don’t want car culture to fade away by 2035. Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles that an older generation once knew. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. Hopefully I can inspire a young kid to follow in my footsteps to keep the breed alive. I believe graduating from Universal Technical Institute will start me on this path.
Redefining Victory Scholarship
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Kings stadium, before they had built the Golden One Center. I can still hear those screaming, racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a soon high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. It was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota truck. When I look at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I wanted to live in a time when if you had motor problems, you rebuilt a carburetor. Almost every Saturday morning I try to make it to the Folsom Cars and Coffee to check out some sweet rides. I have an 18 year old pickup truck that I constantly fix small issues on. Also I have a bass fishing boat from 1986, that has even more issues that I have to fix. I’m even in an auto shop class, where I learn to tear down motors and piece them back together and hopefully have them run.
My Junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of the Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. Up until this point my parents have been telling me what their parents told them at my age… go to college, get a job, buy a house, make a family. This made me rethink the whole college part. We also have some family friends that have taken the trade route and have done pretty well for themselves. My parents have always been big preachers of doing what you love, and this might be it. Upon telling my parents about UTI, it made them realize that college isn’t for everyone. Especially after seeing the statistics of how many new mechanics will replace the current mechanics after they retire is completely unlevel. I’ve always wanted to be a part of an industry like cars, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would have me do that all day.
Slowly I see electric and hybrid cars taking over the streets, I can see the grease monkey breed is slowly dying out. California is even making a law to stop selling new combustion cars starting in 2035. Although I see the value in alternative fuel options, I don’t want car culture to fade away by 2035. Also, race tracks are slowly fading away like Sacramento Raceway and soon to be Laguna Seca Raceway. Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles that an older generation once knew. I want to be the guy at Cars and Coffee that when he rolls in, everybody’s jaw drops. I still want them to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. Hopefully I can inspire a young kid to follow in my footsteps to keep the breed alive.
This scholarship will help provide funds to pay for some of my schooling through Universal Technical Institute in Sacramento. I have been accepted into their Automotive and Diesel Technology II program to attain my Associate of Occupational Studies Degree. My family needs assistance to help fund my passion, as schooling prices have definitely increased over the years. My parents want to help make my dreams come true, but I feel if I can receive a scholarship I will contribute in my own way as well. Thank you for this opportunity.
Joe Ford Trade Scholarship
What I Want to do in the Automotive Industry
When I was younger, like many boys my age, I was intrigued by anything with a loud engine. I remember the first ever live show I went to was a Monster Jam show in the old Kings stadium, before they had built the Golden One Center. I could still hear those screaming racing v8s echoing through that stadium. I can remember the show ended early due to technical difficulties and I got a Donkey Kong monster truck stuffed animal for compensation. I still have that to this day. Also, the movie Cars came out a year after I was born, and my parents would watch that movie on loop with me if we got rained in. That is still one of my favorite movies to watch, even as a soon high school graduate. Before I even learned how to read, my grandparents gave me my first Lego set. From that point on I loved to tear apart and rebuild things. Fast forward to high school, I begin to learn more and more about my parents. When my parents were dating, they were in a four-wheeling club in Southern California. Well, it was mostly a Jeep club, but my dad had a Toyota. When I look at those almost 30 year old photos of my dad scaling cliffs, it makes me want to time travel to when times were simple. I wanted to live in a time when if you had motor problems, you rebuilt a carburetor. Almost every Saturday morning I try to make it to the Folsom Cars and Coffee to check out some sweet rides. I have an 18-year-old pickup truck that I constantly fix small issues on. Also I have a bass fishing boat from 1986, that has even more issues that I have to fix. I’m even in an auto shop class, where I learn to tear down motors and piece them back together and hopefully have them run. I watch all the car shows like Counts Kustoms, Rust Valley Restorers, Gas Monkey Garage, and Jay Leno’s Garage. I aspired to own or work at a professional restoration shop, but it all seemed to be realistic on TV, not in real life.
My Junior year in high school my intro auto shop class took a tour of the Universal Technical Institute near the end of the year. At first I was excited because it was a day away from school, but once I was there I was blown away. The first time I toured the UTI campus I was amazed at the potential opportunities for a career this school could give me. Up until this point my parents have been telling me what their parents told them at my age… go to college, get a job, buy a house, make a family. This made me rethink the whole college part. We also have some family friends that have taken the trade route and have done pretty well for themselves. My parents have always been big preachers of doing what you love, and this might be it. Upon telling my parents about UTI, it made them realize that college isn’t for everyone. Especially after seeing the statistics of how many new mechanics will replace the old mechanics after they retire is completely unlevel. I’ve always wanted to be a part of an industry like cars, and to contribute to car culture in some way. Having problems and fixing them by myself is one of the best feelings, and being a service and repair technician would have me do that all day.
Slowly I see electric and hybrid cars taking over the streets, I can see the grease monkey breed is slowly dying out. California is even making a law to stop selling new combustion cars starting in 2035. Although I see the value in alternative fuel options, I don’t want car culture to fade away by 2035. Also, race tracks are slowly fading away like Sacramento Raceway and soon to be Laguna Seca Raceway. Along with restoring vehicles, I want to restore the thriving culture that is automobiles that an older generation once knew. I want to be the guy at Cars and Coffee that when he rolls in, everybody’s jaw drops. I still want them to feel the same way I felt when I saw my first Monster Jam show. I want to pursue that by having my own restoration shop one day. I want to be able to restore old cars for both myself and clients in the greater Sacramento area. Hopefully I can inspire a young kid to follow in my footsteps to keep the breed alive.