Two North Georgia Technical College students, Joel Nelms of Cleveland and Michael Mannion of Demorest, recently received $500 scholarships each from the Northeast Georgia Antique Auto and Truck Club.
The club has awarded $500 scholarships to two NGTC automotive students annually for more than 15 years. The funds, which are proceeds from the club’s car show, are made available to the winners to purchase tools and equipment for their chosen profession.
Nelms recently graduated with honors from the Automotive Technology Program. Studying under the instruction of Stoney Farmer, Kevin McCurry, and Clayton Smith, Joel competed in SkillsUSA and placed second at the state level. He is currently employed with Billy Cain Ford in Cornelia as a sales consultant.
“I’m so thankful for this scholarship and the opportunity to study with extremely competent instructors at North Georgia Tech who are experienced in their field,” said Nelms. “These men not only taught me to work in the shop but have become my mentors. I truly appreciate my time with them.”
Michael Mannion, a USMC Veteran of six years, is enrolled in the Auto Collision Program and has worked under the instruction of Neil Youngblood, David Rice and Jeremy McAfee.
“I love my program because it makes me think,” said Mannion. “Every vehicle has different issues and damages that require me to assess what needs to be done and then learn how to do it well. The instructors are on hand to provide their knowledge to assist in any way needed. Once you gain the knowledge it no longer feels like work. It turns into art.”
The Northeast Georgia Antique Auto Region Chapter President Grady Cowart and Chapter Vice-President Larry Christie presented Nelms and Mannion their scholarships. Cowart congratulated the winners and expressed his appreciation to the community for supporting the car show each year.
“The more cars we have on exhibit and spectators who come to see the show, the more money we make to invest in scholarships at NGTC and support Relay for Life and the Food Pantries in Habersham and White Counties,” said Cowart. “As a graduate of North Georgia Tech, I am extremely honored to be able to make the presentations on behalf of the Northeast Georgia Antique Auto and Truck Club.”
For more information on the transportation programs or to make a donation to the Foundation, call 706-754-7700 or visit www.northgatech.edu.
