As this next generation of children begins to reach adulthood, the push to get a four year college degree is seen as the only solution to achieve career success. Any other direction is frowned upon by parents and society. Unfortunately, this leaves a huge void in the labor market and ignoring a promising opportunity for today's youth.
College isn't for everyone and there is another choice. Careers in automotive and related fields are in heavy demand and can provide a lucrative alternative to college.
Over the last 30 years, blue collar careers have not been encouraged at the middle and high school levels. Districts around the country are putting more emphasis on four year college degrees while moving away from a viable option for everyone else.
Beginning in the 80s, vocational classes began to disappear to focus more on emerging STEM courses. It was always thought that shop classes were for remedial students and only lead to low-paying jobs.
Because of this negative perception, there is now a huge shortage of labor in the automotive industry. Not only are young students not getting into the trades, the older generation of skilled workers are retiring or dying.
This trend will get worse unless there is a shift toward more vocational training.
This scholarship was established by the friends, family, and colleagues of Jean Robinson and Robert “Trab” Luedecke. The Robinson-Luedecke Memorial Scholarship Fund (Est. 2021) provides assistance to students in the field of automotive technology and related applied technologies. Scholarships are awarded each year to Georgia graduating high school seniors or adults returning to college.
Scholarship Requirements: - Applicants must be pursuing a degree or certificate in automotive technology or a related field from an accredited college or automotive/technical/vocational institution. Provide proof of admission or that you are in the admission process.
- Applicants must be a US citizen, national or permanent legal resident living or attending school in Georgia.
- Type and email an essay, at least 500 words, about your passion and reasoning for pursuing a degree/certificate in automotive technology or a related field.
- All applications must be submitted by November 1st, 2021.
Number of awarded scholarships will depend on funding but there will be at least one $500 scholarship awarded per calendar year. For more information or to apply, please email GeorgiaFieroClub@Gmail.com.
