The NPCA Foundation recently celebrated the next generation of industry leaders when seven students learned they were this year’s recipients of NPCA Foundation scholarships to pursue a career in a precast-related field.
For nearly a decade, the Foundation has invested in students, recognizing young people who combine academic excellence, leadership, work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit. This year’s recipients represent an impressive cross-section of future builders, engineers and innovators whose accomplishments already reflect the values that drive the precast industry forward.
This year’s scholarship recipients include:
Duncan Andris
Duncan Andris has already demonstrated the kind of entrepreneurial spirit and determination that defines future industry leaders. While maintaining nearly a 4.0 GPA, he balanced athletics, leadership roles and hands-on construction experience, all while co-owning and operating multiple small businesses, including woodworking, leatherworking and firewood operations. He is currently gaining real-world experience as a project engineer intern and plans to study construction engineering technology at Oklahoma State University.
Emily Williams
Emily Williams will graduate summa cum laude with a perfect 4.0 GPA and an extraordinary record of leadership and achievement across academics, athletics and music. An Eagle Scout and outdoor educator who has explored more than 35 national parks, Emily also has contributed to improving Tennessee’s historical documentation systems. She will attend the University of Alabama in Huntsville to study industrial engineering with plans to improve production and shipping processes.
Keegan Dooley
Raised around the precast industry, Keegan Dooley developed an early understanding of teamwork, leadership and business operations through firsthand exposure to plant and production environments. Known for supporting teammates and serving his community, Keegan has demonstrated resilience and leadership both on and off the field. He plans to attend Grand Canyon University to study entrepreneurship and hopes to one day start his own precast operation.
Madden Whitlock
Madden Whitlock has built a reputation for leadership, work ethic and hands-on skill through academics, athletics and community involvement. A varsity basketball captain and multi-sport athlete, he also operates his own mobile detailing business while gaining experience in cabinetry and equipment operation. Madden will study construction management at Central Washington University with aspirations of leading projects and eventually running his own company.
Benjamin Johnson
Benjamin Johnson is already contributing to the future of construction technology through his research in 3D-printed concrete and steel at Iowa State University. A civil engineering student with a 3.7 GPA and consistent Dean’s List honors, he combines academic excellence with leadership development and real-world internship experience. Benjamin plans to continue his work in bridge engineering and infrastructure development.
Ivan Vega-Everitt
Ivan Vega-Everitt is pursuing engineering studies at Texas A&M University with plans to enter the civil engineering field. A proven student leader who served as President of the National Honor Society and an FFA student advisor, Ivan developed a strong interest in precast concrete after touring a precast plant and learning about the design and production process. He hopes to help build stronger communities through engineering and leadership.
Remington Rohde
Remington Rohde has combined academics, athletics and leadership with extensive hands-on construction experience throughout high school. Active in organizations including FFA, 4-H and National Honor Society, he has developed skills in carpentry, welding and construction project work while mentoring younger students in his community. Remington plans to study construction engineering at Texas Tech University and ultimately lead his own construction company.