The inaugural class of six Paschen Engineering Scholars celebrated their graduation from the program at the annual Hard Hat Ceremony. This was the first group of CPS George Westinghouse College Prep students that graduated from the program. In addition to this inaugural class graduation, six freshmen from Westinghouse College Prep will were introduced as the latest class of Paschen Engineering Scholars. A total of 23 scholars were in attendance.
“To have all of these amazing students in one room together is very special. There are so many accomplishments amongst this group worth celebrating,” said F.H. Paschen’s Executive Vice President, Joe Scarpelli. “It will be tough to say goodbye to our first group of students, but we’re so excited to see where they are a year from now, and ten years from now. We expect to hear their names associated with great things in the future, and we can’t wait to get our next group of new Paschen scholars started in the program.”
The six graduates received over $3.6 million in scholarships to the schools of their choice. Additionally, graduates received an $800 Amazon gift card for books and technology, $200 worth of college essentials, and a graduation tassel and charm.
The Barkowski Family awarded the first John Barkowski Memorial Scholarship to Ramon Quinto, a Paschen Scholar graduate, in memory of the former F.H. Paschen Vice President who passed away from colon cancer in 2017. John took great pride in his work and worked closely with the Paschen Engineering Scholars. He was always committed to training and educating the next generation of builders.
“We truly believe in these students and the work that we are doing together with Westinghouse in creating career opportunities in engineering and construction,” said F.H. Paschen President and CEO Jim Blair. “F.H. Paschen takes pride in engaging with the communities we serve and providing opportunities for the next generation of leaders in engineering and construction. We are proud and excited for our graduates and look forward to showing our new class what it means to Build With Paschen.”