BLOG: 2021 Pathway Awards Scholarship Winners
MCCEI is dedicated to the advancement of the built environment workforce, making careers in the built environment a first-choice option. In 2021, MCCEI launched it’s first ever annual scholarship for students currently enrolled or planning to enroll in built environment-related coursework for the upcoming school year. Our four winners came from an array of backgrounds and education levels. They were chosen from over two dozen applicants. This year’s winners were: Kathryn Lawless (Mechanical Engineering, University of Maryland College Park), Kristina Humm (Electrical Apprentice, TEI Electrical Solutions), Priscilla Knapp (Mechanical Engineering, University of Maryland College Park), Everette Jackson (Master’s Degree – Southway Builders).
Kathryn Lawless
In Kathryn’s scholarship application, she said: “Driving around Maryland, I see so many opportunities where I can make an impact on work spaces, living spaces, and even play spaces. Of particular interest to me is the changes I’ve seen when driving to visit my brother at UMD in College Park, Md. The old houses and buildings have turned into shiny new apartments, shopping, hotels, and recreation facilities. I can see myself making a difference in the conveniences and quality of life for people living in these transformed communities. Wherever I end up within the built environment, I will bring technical and problem solving skills. After college graduation with a Mechanical Engineering degree, I plan to get my Engineer-In-Training and Professional Engineer license so I can contribute to the design of buildings, bridges, roads, water systems, and so much more. In addition to being strong technically, I will bring an awareness of the impact the built environment has on the environment and I will have focus on sustainability in my designs.”
I can see myself making a difference in the conveniences and quality of life for people living in these transformed communities.
Kristina Humm
In Kristina’s scholarship application, she said: “I have chosen to be a part of the electrical skilled trades. This was not my original choice for my career, but I am glad that I have found myself on this path. Although I loved teaching, I needed to make a change and I chose electrical work because of the tremendous growth that it provides me. While trying to find my place after leaving teaching, I worked as a pool technician and learned that I enjoyed manual labor. Because I have a technical background in biology, and I enjoy learning about complex systems, electrical seemed like the best fit for me. I am excited that I have found a career that finally feels like home. I am excited because I can see my path and I understand how I can meet my goals. I have finally begun to understand who I am and my career in the trades has been crucial in that understanding. I am excited because I am finally starting to feel like an individual.”
I have finally begun to understand who I am and my career in the trades has been crucial in that understanding
Priscilla Knapp
In her own words:
This MCCEI scholarship is a tremendous help, as it alleviates some of the financial burden and allows me to concentrate on academics and service rather than worry about the overwhelming costs of a higher education. I will be applying the funds directly toward the cost of the Engineering Program at The University of Maryland that works on a differential tuition scale, and carries an additional charge of $2,856 per year, regardless of residency. I would also be able to confirm and secure my housing deposit with the Honors College, which also carries an additional fee. Attending UMD as an Honors student is a privilege and I am extremely grateful for the financial contribution to further my academic and professional goals.
This MCCEI scholarship is a tremendous help, as it alleviates some of the financial burden and allows me to concentrate on academics and service.
Everette Jackson
In his own words:
I’m truly grateful to be receiving this scholarship from MCCEI. I graduated from Morgan State University majoring in Construction Management with a minor in Business Administration this past spring. Now, with my eyes set on the Construction Management Master’s program at Morgan State University, These funds will aid me in continuing my higher education. With almost four years of education and experience as an intern I’ve solidified my goal to work in the construction industry. Now I’m working as an official employee with Southway Builders, a local construction company. My first job is a renovation at Baltimore Unity Hall, located here in Baltimore City. Full time work by day and full-time classes by night will be a harrowing task to manage, but I know I’ve made it this far. With a little bit of faith and plenty of hard work and long nights, I think it’s a challenge that’s surmountable. Thank you all again and God Bless!
With a little bit of faith and plenty of hard work and long nights, I think it’s a challenge that’s surmountable.
Congratulations again to all of our 2021 Scholarship Winners and a big thank you goes out to our scholarship donors, especially Barton Malow Builders for donating two of the four scholarships. If you would like to donate to the 2022 Scholarship Fund, we are accepting donations! Donate here to support the next generation of built environment workers.
Watch the Pathway Awards where we dispersed the scholarships and hear from the winners themselves!