Heather Johnson at the A-B Tech Computer Technology Program's annual Student Showcase

The first recipient of the scholarship was Heather Johnson, a Computer Information Technology student. "Heather is the type of student instructors love to have.  She is hard working and committed to learning.  She often has worked multiple jobs but always ensures her student work is outstanding," said Pamela Silvers, Chair of Computer Technologies.

Heather also happened to be an intern at A-B Emblem as part of the company's perpetual internship program, which gives yearlong positions to A-B Tech students. "We were ecstatic that Heather won," Nagle said. "We only set the criteria and stayed out of the selection process completely. The folks who work with her were pleased she was the first recipient. " A-B Tech Foundation Scholarship applications are reviewed by a scholarship selection committee.  

As a new intern was starting at A-B Emblem this spring, Heather's year was nearly over. Grateful for the opportunity, but prepared to go out into the world and look for an IT job, Heather was a bit sad to go. "It's a great work environment, but there is the understanding that interns aren't hired."

Bernhard noticed Heather's year was up and he knew about her experience with databases. A few years ago a small team of electronic engineers was assembled to develop a unique and patentable embroidery specific machine monitoring system. Heather was hired to join that team as the database administrator and help bring the system to conclusion and to market.

"She had the skills for the project, which is a separate project but part of A-B Emblem. If the project goes well, it will lead into a permanent position," Nagle said.

"I've been working there a little under a month and it's going really well," Heather said. "I have my own desk, which I am tickled pink about. I've never had my own desk before, but then I've never had a job like this before either. I've always been in retail or some kind of manual labor type job. As far as IT goes, this is a dream job for me."

Click here to read more about A-B Emblem and Heather Johnson. 

With close to 500 hours of volunteer service to A-B Tech, John Roeth has been named A-B Tech's 2015 Volunteer of the Year.   

A-B Tech President Dennis King (left) poses with Volunteer of the Year John Roeth (right) at the recent Volunteer Luncheon.

"John is truly an outstanding volunteer," says Pamela Silvers, Chair of Business Computer Technologies. Because students can begin a class and be nervous and unsure about their ability to succeed, a volunteer working one-on-one with a student can have a very positive and successful effect. "John has been willing to provide this type of tutoring which helps to relieve the stress and help the student to be on course," Pam noted. She applauded Roeth for his patience and his helpful approach with students who experience challenges with the coursework.

From technology to the Adult Basic Skills Department, Roeth's aptitude in math and science garnered notice from Kim Litz, Mathematics and Science Academic Specialist, who remarks fondly about the fact her volunteer is even willing to assist her with clerical tasks, such as making copies and cutting out geometric shapes for instructional use. "One day he even cut out 144 square inches to help the students see that there are 144 square inches in a square foot," Kim said.

Roeth monitors Kim's GED math classes and steps in to assist students with their work when they are struggling. He tutors students individually and administers practice tests. "John has a great attitude. He observes the students carefully, watching for opportunities to assist them. He is always a willing and fun participant in doing class projects. The students think of him as part of the class," says Kim. "He can help give the students real-world examples of when they need specific math skills and when he has used them in his own work experience."

Roeth also has an undeniable reliable presence in the Veterans' Café, where he assists students with computer applications and helps support the volunteer role in that area under station supervisor Mary Albert.

As part of the mentor program, he provides considerable direction and support for a student who lacks those two important components for a successful college experience.

Click here to read more about Volunteer of the Year John Roeth.