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Foundation
James Sternweis
The FVTC Foundation makes college possible for current and future FVTC students. Next year, one of those students could be you. High school seniors and returning adult students are encouraged to apply for scholarships. • • • Learn more: www.fvtc.edu/Foundation
From Cars to the Classroom
Scholarship recipient wants to share passion for tech ed with younger students.
By Carmelyn Daley-Hinkens
As a student at Waupaca High School, James Sternweis knew he wanted to work in automotive repair. What he did not know was his love for fixing vehicles would lead him back to the classroom; first as a college student and then as a teacher.
“I wasn’t sure whether to go into heavy equipment, automotive or diesel repair,” James explains. “Then two of my teachers asked if I knew about the Career and Technical Education Instruction program at FVTC. I was intrigued, so I did some research and decided this program was a good fit.”
Once James graduates with an associate degree, he can enter into a contractual agreement with a participating school district where he will teach technical education classes for three years while deciding whether to pursue a bachelor’s degree. “I want to teach automotive technologies at the high school level and use the time to determine if I like teaching,” James says. “If I like it, I will start on my bachelor’s degree. If I do not like teaching, I will use the skills from the program for something else.”
In addition to a helpful nudge from his teachers, James also received a financial boost as a recipient of the FVTC Foundation Staff Giving Scholarship. In James’ case, the additional money lessens the strain of commuting from Waupaca.
“One of the best things about FVTC is it’s much more affordable than a four-year college,” James explains. “But I still work full-time to pay for school. The scholarship pays part of my tuition, which leaves me with more money for commuting to school.”
