ACEC California Unveils 2025 Scholarship Recipients
The American Council of Engineering Companies of California (ACEC California) proudly announces its 2025 Scholarship Foundation award recipients. These scholarships are offered to exceptional undergraduate and graduate students pursuing degrees in engineering or land surveying, aimed at nurturing the next generation of professionals in these essential fields.
Scholarship Overview
This year, ACEC California Scholarship Foundation has awarded an impressive total of $82,000 in scholarships to 15 deserving students, with six awards granted to graduate students and nine to undergraduates. The recipients have demonstrated outstanding accomplishments in their academic pursuits and have shown a strong commitment to addressing significant policy challenges.
Empowering Future Leaders
Brad Diede, Executive Director of ACEC California, emphasized the importance of fostering young talent today. With an increasing demand for skilled engineers and land surveyors, he stated, "It is crucial to encourage young people to pursue these rewarding, well-paying careers. We remain committed to fostering the next generation of professionals in these vital fields." This commitment is evident in the involvement of students in engineering-focused organizations like the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Student Chapters, as well as various consulting engineering firms.
Student Accomplishments
The scholarship recipients have actively contributed to various impactful projects that significantly benefit society. Their endeavors include the design of rail and transit corridors, the creation of accessible pedestrian pathways, satellite integration, and international efforts to provide clean water access in underserved rural communities. Challenges like these illustrate the importance of skilled education and training.
Personal Experiences
Among the scholarship winners, Emilda Gwerengwe, a civil engineering student at San Jose State University, shared her gratitude, stating, "As a first-generation graduate student, being awarded the ACEC Scholarship is so impactful. It allows me to focus on my academic goals and stay on track for graduation. Additionally, the financial assistance enables me to prepare for the Professional Engineering (PE) Exam, which I hope to take before graduation."
Selection Process
This year’s scholarship applications reached a record-setting total of 150 submissions, all meticulously reviewed by the Foundation's Volunteer Board of Trustees. Chair Chris Diaz of Diaz•Yourman & Associates, alongside members from various well-known engineering firms, ensured a fair and thorough selection process.
List of Scholarship Recipients
The recipients of the 2025 scholarship awards are:
- Sonia Yanez Ayon, University of California, Davis, pursuing a master's in civil engineering and structural engineering.
- Morgan Bates, University of the Pacific, pursuing a bachelor's in civil engineering and engineering management.
- Justin Gip, San Diego State University, pursuing a bachelor's in civil engineering.
- Emilda Gwerengwe, San Jose State University, pursuing a master's in civil engineering.
- Xitlaly Anaely Gonzalez, California State University, Chico, pursuing a bachelor's in civil engineering.
- Kai Halpin, University of California, Irvine, pursuing a bachelor's in mechanical engineering.
- Alexandra Kersting, University of California, San Diego, pursuing a master's in structural engineering.
- Kaleb Limtiaco, California Baptist University, pursuing a bachelor's in civil engineering.
- Oscar Macias, California Baptist University, pursuing a bachelor's in construction engineering.
- Merissa Mills, University of California, Los Angeles, pursuing a master's in civil engineering.
- Peter Otoshi, California Polytechnic State University, Pomona, pursuing a bachelor's in civil engineering.
- Giuse Pham, Stanford University, pursuing a master's in mechanical engineering.
- Komal Kaur Sandhu, University of California, Davis, pursuing a master's in structural engineering and civil engineering.
- Nathan Vlasin, University of California, Irvine, pursuing a bachelor's in electrical engineering and computer engineering.
- Garrett Westwick, California Baptist University, pursuing a bachelor's in civil engineering.
Looking Ahead
These scholarship funds will be disbursed to students at the start of the Fall 2025 semester. This initiative not only highlights the financial commitment to nurturing future engineers but also instills hope and motivation in these aspiring professionals.
About ACEC California
ACEC California represents a vast network of over 1,000 engineering and land surveying firms, comprising nearly 25,000 professions dedicated to the design, construction, and maintenance of California's infrastructures, including residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the ACEC California Scholarship Foundation?
The foundation aims to support undergraduate and graduate students pursuing engineering or land surveying degrees through financial scholarships.
How much total funding was awarded in the 2025 scholarship program?
A total of $82,000 was awarded to 15 scholarship recipients this year.
Who are some notable past scholarship recipients?
While specific names may vary each year, previous recipients have gone on to impactful careers in engineering and related fields, contributing to significant projects.
What selection criteria are used for scholarship applicants?
Scholarship applicants are evaluated based on their academic achievements, leadership experiences, and commitment to the field of engineering.
How can students apply for the ACEC California Scholarship in the future?
Interested candidates can find application details on the ACEC California website, usually available in the spring before the scholarship awards are announced.
