Crestview High student excels in building trades, earns scholarship

CRESTVIEW, Fla. — A Crestview High School student has been awarded a scholarship for his achievement in the school’s building trades program.

Troy Young, a senior at Crestview High, received the Robert and Amy Harper Scholarship at the International Builders Show (IBS) in Las Vegas, Nevada, January 31-February 2, the Okaloosa County School District (OCSD) has announced.

“I am extremely proud of Troy and his accomplishments in our building trades class at Crestview High School,” said Marcus Chambers, OCSD Superintendent of Schools.

“Our CTE programs are designed to create a pipeline for students to learn skills in elementary, middle, and high school and continue to college, the military, or the workforce with valuable skills that help put them ahead of their peers.”

According to the OCSD, the scholarship is awarded to one high school student who plans a trade career. Out of 72 schools in Florida and over 300 nationwide, Young won the award for his achievements in the building program at Crestview High School.

He has earned six certifications in construction and HVAC and is a lead project manager and designer of the Capstone class project, the OCSD said.

In addition to the cash scholarship, all expenses, including admission to the IBS and flight and hotel accommodations, were provided for Young and a guest. Danny Meinecke, Crestview High School’s building trades teacher, and David Welch, career and technical education (CTE) specialist, attended the event with Young.

“Mr. Meinecke does a great job ensuring that his students are equipped for the future, no matter which path they choose to pursue when they leave his classroom,” Chambers said.