Shelsy Mondragon’s love of learning and interest in the trades started by watching her automotive mechanic father.
“I enjoyed watching him take things apart and put them back together again,” shared Shelsy. “I like learning by doing and working with my hands and even considered following my dad into becoming an automotive mechanic.”
During her senior year she enrolled in the youth apprenticeship program through the Aerospace Joint Apprenticeship Committee (AJAC). Her aerospace class teacher at Hazen High School introduced her to welding.
Now in her first quarter in the Welding Program at RTC, Shelsy is one of 25 inaugural recipients of the new Career Launch Scholarship. Career Launch provides $6,000 to graduates from the Renton School District who have taken career technical education courses while in school and plan to attend RTC.
Funded through the vision and generosity of Cathy and Sean O’Neill; Robert McLennaghan and his late wife Bonnie’ and the estate of Fred and Anne Knack.
“This scholarship made all the difference,” Shelsy said. “I live independently and work part-time to pay my bills. I am grateful that I don’t have to worry about how I will pay for my tuition and tools.”
Because donors like you, Shelsy looks forward to coming to the welding lab every day and growing her skills with greater confidence – and without financial worries.
Learn more about the Career Launch Scholarship.
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