Dylan Pond writes…
Hey Mike,
I don’t know if you remember my name, but I was one of the first recipients of your work ethic scholarship. Three years ago, I was a senior in high school and didn’t know where life was going to take me. No, after completing my course work at MTI, I applied for the local steamfitters union in Peoria Illinois. After a test and an interview, I was accepted, and placed 3rd overall. It was a proud day for me to find out I had scored higher than over 100 over people applying for the same apprentice position. Now, in my second year of the apprenticeship I have learned so much from being in the class and on the job. I just wanted to let you know how thankful I am for the scholarship. I wish there was a way I could repay you. I just want to say thank you again, and I hope everything keeps going well with getting the younger generation to work with their hands.
Dylan –
Sure, I remember. You made the local press, as I recall, and were one of the very first recipients of a mikeroweWORKS Work Ethic Scholarship. I’m glad to hear from you.
Truth is, it’s an honor to help people who wish to help themselves, and you, sir, are the embodiment of that very thing. So allow me to thank you for taking the initiative. You applied for a work ethic scholarship, you got into a great welding school, you landed an apprenticeship, and now, you’re putting your skills to good use. Thank you for all of that, and thank you in advance for the work you’ve not yet done. I have no idea where your talents will ultimately take you, but I can tell you this – work ethic is a habit. And if you keep this up, you’re liable to wind up running a school like Mid-West Technical Institute – founded by two welders, incidentally.
As for repaying me, there is no need, Dylan, because there is no debt. But there is something you can do for me – you can continue to take pride in your work. Be proud of the skills you’re developing, and don’t be shy about sharing your vocation with anyone. The world is held together with welds, and the people who make them. So go make something great, and the work will speak for itself.
Good luck, Dylan, and thanks for your note. It’s gratifying.
Mike
PS. New round of work ethic scholarships for men and women like Dylan. Apply now. mikeroweworks.org