"I’m the youngest of three boys. I’ve grown up following in the big footsteps of not only my older brothers but my dad and grandfathers who are the strongest, most hardworking men I know. We have a small family farm that my grandparents bought in the early 70’s and our entire family has helped to make it grow into the farm it is today.

My family is very close, through ups and downs, they show up for each other and look after each other. They taught me to set goals for myself and that hard work will help to meet my goals. Most of our time is spent on the farm and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I love being outside and working in the fields. My dad and grandfathers all taught me to take pride in any work I do, my father and middle brother both took the Electro Mechanical Technician course and were big influences on my decision to take this course as well.

Both of my parents work full time and run the farm during the evenings and weekends. Growing up, we didn't have a lot but they made sure we had everything we needed. I know they'll help me financially with anything I need for school, (even if they have to borrow it to make it happen) so that I won't have considerable debt when I finish. I am so grateful to them for the unending support but I want to help as much as I can too and ease the burden on them.

My goal is to make my mom and dad proud, to do the best I’m able with any task I set out to do, like they taught me. I want to find work in the electrical field. I enjoy trade work and solving problems, working with my hands and plan to work hard. Not knowing what the future holds when I finish this course, having the financial help that I will receive from this award, is going to take so much pressure off both mine and my parents shoulders so that I really can focus on school and finish it successfully. I will use the knowledge gained from this course to find my career and maybe contribute even more to our farm. I hope that together with my brothers, someday we’ll be running the farm.

I did not think I would receive any awards or bursaries that I applied for. So many students apply and while I tried my best in school, I did not have the highest marks and I don’t consider myself as smart as my brothers or dad, even a lot of my friends. So being chosen for this is a huge surprise and is very much appreciated. It is such an honor and I will work extremely hard to make sure your choice is not taken for granted."

"I chose NSCC because I have always been interested in pursuing a career as a Truck and Transport/Diesel Mechanic, and NSCC offers this program. My interest in this trade began at a young age after watching diesel mechanics work on the engine of my family’s fishing boat. Seeing the skills and knowledge required to diagnose problems, make repairs and keep the engine running interested me in becoming a mechanic myself. NSCC provides me with the opportunity to build the skills and knowledge I need to pursue a career in a trade that I have been interested in for many years.

Thank you very much for your generous support towards my education. I sincerely appreciate your contribution and the opportunity it provides me to pursue my goals and continue working toward a successful career. Your generosity means a great deal to me and will make a meaningful difference in my education and future."