Thanks to the generosity of the Grainger Foundation, four Columbus Technical College students have an extra 475 dollars in their proverbial pockets to help offset the cost of school. The winners, all from Muscogee county, hail from three different programs at the college: welding and joining technology, air conditioning technology and automotive technology. The Grainger Foundation has been providing scholarship funds to Columbus Tech students since 2010. Including this presentation, 55 students have been served and $32,275 in assistance has been awarded. Next semester will mark the end of this particular cycle of scholarship but Columbus Technical College is allowed to re-apply for the funds after two years.   

In order to qualify for the Grainger Foundation scholarship, a student must be enrolled in the air conditioning technology, welding and joining technology, automotive technology, or automotive repair diploma programs. They are also required to have completed a certificate in their field of study. Students must have maintained a minimum 3.0 GPA, get two letters of recommendation, and state in a brief essay why they should receive the scholarship and how it will help them successfully complete their education.

In his essay, air conditioning technology student Charles Biggs wrote about his passion for his trade and how lessons learned at a young age propelled him to excel.

“Both of my parents were orphaned as children and I learned early on that hard, honest work is the best means of making a living. They raised my siblings and me with this truth in mind, and as a result, it has become a central part of who I am today,” Biggs said.

Automotive technology student James Harrington has been pushing through some very trying times while attending Columbus Technical College. A tree fell on his family’s home during a recent storm and the family had to stay in a hotel for several nights. His school family helped the Harringtons pull through.

“Having no relatives living in the Columbus, Georgia area, I’ve found comfort from my fellow classmates and instructor while I can show the leadership to my family and be their shoulder to lean on,” Harrington wrote.

Welding student Kyle Durocher found his true path in his program and is looking forward to being a sought-after employee.

“I’ve always been a very determined worker, but finding a career choice that fit so well with the core desires of what I want to do drives me to work even more and put in even more effort,” Durocher said. “This scholarship would help me continue my education with one less financial burden to worry about.”

Fellow welding student Jarred Brockton is also looking forward to his career in welding and knows the extra 475 dollars will be well spent.

“I am applying for jobs with a number of companies throughout the United States. This money will help me acquire a number of tools and safety items needed to assist me in the presentation of my skills.”

The Grainger scholars are allowed to use their money toward any program-related expense such as testing or certification costs, tools, or other supplies. The Columbus Technical College Foundation manages all scholarship funds for the College.