Last night, Curt G. Joa, Inc. awarded the first of two engineering scholarships made available to Sheboygan County seniors pursuing a bachelor’s degree in mechanical or electrical engineering. The $2,500 scholarship includes a paid internship at Curt G. Joa, Inc. following the completion of the student’s freshman year of college.

Joa Executive Vice President Mike Brookins presented Sheboygan South senior Jessika McNellis with the scholarship at the school’s Scholarship Night Event. McNellis, who graduates as a class valedictorian, will pursue a degree in mechanical engineering from UW-Madison this fall.

“We believe that the best talent can be found in our own backyard,” Brookins said. “This scholarship, along with the internship opportunity, confirms this belief.”

This is the first year that Joa offered a scholarship, giving local students the opportunity to grow their skills in an engineering-driven company where they can work on a wide array of projects.

“This is the first year we are offering a scholarship and we were overwhelmed by the high-caliber applications that we received from students throughout the county,” Brookins said. “We will be supporting students not only with a financial gift toward their education but allowing them to hone their engineering skills while working for us as an intern.” 

The second engineering scholarship will be awarded to Oostburg senior Justin Mentink during a ceremony on June 3. Mentik, who graduates with nearly a 4.0 average, plans to attend Michigan Tech in the fall to pursue a degree in electrical engineering.