Jackie Norman, is a Texas State Technical College Metallica Scholar and Automotive Technology student. Earlier this year, the engine on Norman’s pickup truck blew out, and he thought it would be a quick and easy fix. After assessing the damage, however, Norman learned that he would need an entirely new engine.
As a student at TSTC, the TSTC Foundation was able to help the California native with expenses for a new engine. According to Brandon Scott Thomas, senior field development officer for The TSTC Foundation, he is proud to provide resources thanks to their supporters.
“The TSTC Foundation works closely with the Advocacy and Resource Center to remove financial barriers for our students during critical times,” he said. “We are so grateful to our donors who are called to give emergency aid. This resource for our students can often be the difference in whether or not they continue studying during any given semester.”
These days, Norman spends his time in the Automotive Technology lab working on his own vehicle as a certified I-CAR (Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair) specialist. He also decided to add to his resume by studying to become a master mechanic. Thanks to the Metallica Scholars Initiative (MSI), Norman did not have to worry about finding the tools for his trade. He was loaned a complete set that TSTC purchased through the MSI grant. He also received a $1,000 scholarship as a Metallica Scholar.
“I am an old-school person and find the music of the 1980s, including Metallica, relaxing. Listening to that music brings back childhood memories.”
