Experienced Workers Expand Career Options with Scholarships

The August recipients of SC&RF’s Vocational/Technical Scholarships include several individuals with construction industry experience. It takes unique skills and certifications to work in crane, rigging, and specialized transportation. These individuals are applying for scholarships in order to continue on a career path in this specialty field.

Andrew Brosnac, an apprentice oiler for SC&RA member company Maxim Crane Works, speaks to the importance of training and certification in order to seek advancement opportunities. “I have worked in construction for many years and have slowly been moving toward my dream of becoming a [crane] operator,” he said. “A formal education has become the only safe and proper way to learn this trade. I have spent years working with individuals who were and others who were not NCCCO-certified. There is such a dramatic difference between the two that my path has been made very clear,” he said.

Brosnac was awarded 100% tuition for Industrial Training International Rigger and NCCCO Crane Operator courses as part of the Partners in Education program. Following completion of these courses, he intends to pursue National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators (NCCCO) certifications.

Justin Salinas has previous experience in utility and construction industries. He is seeking to renew his NCCCO Rigger Certification. “Knowledge is power in crane and rigging…and not just power—it is also about safety,” said Salinas. “It’s a good feeling when you are lifting 100,000-pound loads and everything goes smoothly because you know the capacity of your rigging, the center of gravity, and the rigging [plan] is solid.”  

Salinas awarded 100% tuition for the Rigger Course from Crane Inspection & Certification Bureau (CICB) through the Partners in Education program.

Hulon Burk has been driving a flatbed trailer for several years but is seeking the job stability and growth opportunities that come with crane operation. He was awarded $1,500 to use toward a CICB Crane Operator Course. He also received 50% tuition for this course through the Partners in Education program. “I want to be a crane operator in an industry where I can grow and be a teammate,” he said.

Jennifer Marotta, a previous SC&RF Scholarship recipient, was advised by her rigging trainer at CICB to continue to round out her skills to improve her employability options. She was awarded $700 to take Forklift Operator and Aerial Boom Lift Operator courses. She is the recipient of the McTyre Family Continuing Education Scholarship. “I was blessed to get a taste of this rewarding career field, which allows me to [apply] my logical thinking skills,” she said.