The NFPA Education and Technology Foundation has awarded 20 $2,500 scholarships to students pursuing fluid power related fields of study. One of the winners, Steven Hamley, is attending the University of Central Florida. We asked Steven a few questions about winning the scholarship.
What does winning a Fluid Power Scholarship mean to you?
Winning the Fluid Power Scholarship will make a great impact on my finances to pay for college. With this scholarship I will not only be able to attend college but, hopefully, participate in many extracurricular activities revolving around fluid power. More importantly, winning this award proves to me that my dedication to fluid power is recognized.
Why did you choose to learn about fluid power?
I first learned about fluid power through my VEX Robotics team. In a competition where our motors are limited, learning additional ways to power mechanisms is crucial. This need to refine our competition robot pushed me into the world of pneumatics and fluid power, where I became educated on all of its capabilities.
What are your career aspirations? What type of fluid power job do you hope to get after you graduate?
Although I am not entirely sure what I plan to do in my future, I am excited to find what I enjoy and narrow down my options in college. Attending the University of Central Florida gives me access to a wide range of opportunities that should benefit me moving forward into my career. I would love to find an opportunity in which I can integrate small and technical fluid power parts, with a much larger mechanical system to create a more sustainable future.
A minimum GPA of 2.5 out of 4.0, 500-word essay, and letter of recommendation were required from each applicant. The NFPA Foundation’s goal is to help graduating high school students, and individuals enrolled in community colleges, technical schools and universities pursue their academic interests in fluid power.
Volunteer on the NFPA Committee that selects Fluid Power Scholarship recipients! This opportunity is completely virtual. NFPA Members are invited to review applications for the $2,500 Fluid Power Scholarship program. Judges can expect to review applications for 6-10 hours total in April & May. E-mail hnemeth@nfpa.com with questions, or to volunteer by 3/1.