From a young age, I have been drawn to understanding how things work. Whether it was taking apart old appliances or helping with repairs around the house, I always found excitement in solving problems with my hands and mind. This natural curiosity eventually led me to technical training as a machine operator, where I learned firsthand the importance of precision, discipline, and practical skills. However, as I gained experience, I realized I wanted to do more than operate machines; I wanted to design, improve, and innovate them. That realization inspired me to pursue a career in engineering, a STEM field that blends my love for hands-on problem-solving with my drive to create lasting, positive change. I chose to pursue a degree in mechanical engineering because it allows me to build directly on the skills and lessons I learned in the trades, while also expanding my ability to tackle larger, more complex challenges. Engineering offers the opportunity not only to understand systems but also to improve them, making machines more efficient, processes more sustainable, and technology more accessible. To me, STEM is not just about science and technology; it is about service. It's about utilizing knowledge and innovation to address genuine needs in authentic communities. My long-term career goal is to own and operate my engineering firm, specializing in practical, community-focused solutions. I aim to design and produce technologies that support the individuals who build and maintain the foundations of our society, including construction workers, electricians, plumbers, machinists, and countless others. I hope to make their jobs safer, easier, and more efficient, recognizing the essential role they play in shaping the world around us. Beyond my professional ambitions, I am deeply committed to serving my community in a broader sense. I plan to volunteer my time and skills to mentor young people interested in the trades and STEM fields, especially those who may not otherwise have access to these opportunities. Growing up, I was fortunate to have mentors who encouraged me to pursue my interests, and I want to pass that encouragement on. I also hope to be involved in initiatives that provide technical education and resources to underserved areas, both locally and internationally. Whether it's helping build sustainable infrastructure overseas or offering free workshops in my hometown, I believe that knowledge should be shared, not hoarded. I know that pursuing a STEM career will come with challenges — rigorous academics, rapidly evolving technology, and the need to balance innovation with practicality in the real world. However, I am committed to facing those challenges with determination, adaptability, and a service-first mindset. STEM is more than a career path for me; it is a calling to build, to solve, and most importantly, to serve. By blending technical excellence with a heart for people, I hope to leave a legacy of meaningful impact: one machine, one solution, and one community at a time.

From the beginning of my career, I knew I wanted to do work that made a real, visible difference in my community. I began by training to become a machine operator, learning to work with my hands and mastering the tools that keep industries running smoothly. During that time, I developed a deep appreciation for the trades: the pride that comes from doing a job well, the teamwork it requires, and the way every task, no matter how small, contributes to building something bigger. However, as I continued to grow, I realized that my passion wasn't just in operating machines but in understanding them, improving them, and eventually designing better systems to serve the people who rely on them. That discovery led me to transition to a career in engineering while still holding tightly to the values I learned from the trades. Although I am now pursuing a four-year degree in mechanical engineering, my heart remains closely tied to the trades. I see engineering not as a departure from my original path but as a way to build on it. I plan to utilize my skills to design more effective tools, machines, and infrastructure, which will enable tradespeople to work more efficiently, safely, and effectively. Rather than sitting in an office far removed from real-world problems, I want to stay connected to the needs of builders, electricians, plumbers, machinists, and other skilled workers, ensuring that the technology I help create truly serves them. The trades are the backbone of every thriving community. Without skilled labor, our homes, roads, schools, and businesses would not exist. I want to honor that reality by contributing in a way that combines hands-on experience with technical knowledge. By understanding both the theory behind the work and the practical challenges that tradespeople face daily, I aim to serve as a bridge between innovation and real-world application. Of course, I am aware that this path will come with challenges. One major obstacle I expect to face is staying grounded in the practical realities of the trade world while navigating the academic environment of engineering. It can be easy for engineers to get lost in complex designs that do not translate well to real-world job sites. To overcome this, I plan to stay actively involved with the trades community, whether through internships, job site visits, or simply staying in conversation with those who are doing the work on the ground. Another challenge will be keeping up with the constant changes in both technology and industry standards. I am committed to being a lifelong learner, willing to adapt and grow as my field continues to evolve. Ultimately, my goal is straightforward: to make a positive, lasting impact in my community by helping tradespeople work more effectively, safely, and efficiently. Whether through designing better machines, solving technical problems, or simply listening to the needs of those around me, I strive to make my work reflect the value of the trades and the essential role they play in shaping the world we all live in.

My father was the first person in my family to attend college, and by doing so, he set a powerful example for his children: with determination and sacrifice, we can pursue our dreams no matter the cost. Growing up, I watched him work hard, often sacrificing time and comfort to ensure our family was cared for. He always reminded my siblings and me that we can do far more than we might believe. His journey didn’t just inspire me; it laid the foundation for my aspirations. Now, I hope to follow in his footsteps and become the second person in my family to earn a college degree and pursue a mechanical engineering career. Mechanical engineering has fascinated me for as long as I can remember. I’ve always wanted to know how things worked, taking apart broken electronics, rebuilding bikes, and spending time in the machine shop during high school. The hands-on nature of engineering appeals to my problem-solving mindset and creativity. I love that mechanical engineering isn’t just about theory. It’s about applying knowledge to solve real-world problems, improve people’s lives, and make everyday systems more efficient. I’ve found a deep sense of purpose in the idea that I could one-day help design solutions that directly impact my community through clean energy systems, medical devices, or sustainable technologies. However, despite my passion and work ethic, one significant obstacle stands in my way: finances. As a student from a working-class family, the cost of college is daunting. Scholarships are more than just financial aid. They represent hope and opportunity. Receiving this scholarship would be an investment in my education and my future as someone who wants to make a meaningful contribution to the world through engineering. With the financial burden eased, I could focus more fully on my studies, maintaining strong grades and immersing myself in learning opportunities both in and outside the classroom. I would also be able to engage more in campus life, student organizations, and internships that will help me grow professionally and personally. Without the constant stress of how to pay for tuition and other expenses, I can channel my energy into becoming the best student and future engineer I can be. I take this opportunity seriously. If awarded this scholarship, I will strive to honor the investment made in me by working hard, staying focused, and embodying the perseverance and ambition my father taught me. My long-term goal is to earn my degree, enter the engineering field, and give back to help other students like myself, mentor younger learners, and support my family and community with the skills I’ve gained. Thank you for considering my application and helping me achieve a dream that means more than just a diploma; it’s a legacy!

My name is Micah Humby I am the son of a minister and have always been taught the importance of community and service. Growing up, I faced the challenge of dyslexia, which made reading and learning more difficult for me. However, it also taught me perseverance and problem-solving skills. Despite this, I have maintained a 3.89 GPA throughout high school and have been on the honor roll for four years in a row. I am also proud to have been named Student of the Month at TCT (Tri County Tech). I have a deep passion for engineering and missions. I am excited to be pursuing a dual degree in Mechanical Engineering at Kansas State University and Missions at Manhattan Christian College. My dream is to one day own a large plot of land where I can farm and homestead, with a shop for welding and machining where I can tinker and create. This vision combines my love for engineering with my desire to live a self-sustaining lifestyle and contribute to my community. I envision a place where I can innovate and develop new technologies that help people lead better lives while promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship. I am an Eagle Scout and have regularly volunteered through the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) and the National Honor Society (NHS). These experiences have taught me leadership, teamwork, and the importance of giving back. As an Eagle Scout, I led various community service projects, including organizing food drives and building community gardens. Through NHS, I participated in tutoring programs and mentorship initiatives that helped fellow students excel academically. I am also a member of the Valorant E-sports club team and serve on the On The Rock Teen Board, where I volunteer and help organize events for teens in my community. These activities have allowed me to develop strong organizational and interpersonal skills, which I believe will be invaluable in my future career. In addition to my extracurricular activities, I have gained work experience as a Volunteer Floor Manager at On The Rock Ministries and as a machine operator at PPM. These jobs have taught me responsibility, time management, and the value of hard work. As a Volunteer Floor Manager, I was responsible for coordinating events and managing teams of volunteers, which honed my leadership abilities. Working as a machine operator at PPM gave me practical experience in engineering and manufacturing processes, reinforcing my passion for mechanical engineering. Receiving the Treye Knorr Memorial Scholarship would greatly help me achieve my goals. It would ease the financial burden of college and allow me to focus more on my studies and less on how to pay for them. With this scholarship, I would be able to fully immerse myself in my engineering and missions courses, participate in internships, and gain the knowledge and skills I need to make my dreams a reality. The financial support would also enable me to engage in extracurricular activities and community service projects that are integral to my personal and professional development. My ultimate goal is to use my engineering degree to contribute to my community and the world. I hope to design and create sustainable technologies that can improve people’s lives and help protect the environment. I also want to continue my involvement in missions, using my skills to help those in need both locally and globally. By integrating my engineering expertise with my passion for missions, I aim to develop solutions that address pressing global challenges such as clean water access, renewable energy, and sustainable agriculture. In conclusion, I am a dedicated and hardworking student with a passion for engineering and missions. I have faced challenges but have always persevered and maintained a strong academic record. I am committed to using my skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on my community and the world. The Treye Knorr Memorial Scholarship would help me achieve my goals and allow me to focus on my studies and future career. This scholarship would not only alleviate the financial pressures of college but also empower me to fully engage in my educational journey and community service efforts. Thank you for considering my application.