Seizing opportunity: Automotive Student receives 5 Scholarships and 1 Fellowship to Germany

Isaac DeBilzan, a 2^nd year automotive student at Hennepin Technical College, proves that hard work and ambition pays off.

Isaac’s journey into automotive began in his senior year of high school where he took two automotive courses that gave him the spark that made him want to learn more. After graduating high school, he got a job with TGK Automotive, a local shop, and enrolled at Hennepin Technical College that fall.

“I like working with my hands. I like puzzles. I don’t want to be at a desk all day, and I like cars,” Isaac explains when asked why he chose to go to school for automotive. It’s a simple and authentic statement that proves his choice was a good fit.

With the help of instructors, Isaac learned about the many scholarship opportunities that exist for automotive students and he got to work filling out applications. And it certainly paid off! Throughout his studies, Isaac received scholarships from White Bear Lake High School, AASP Minnesota, the Workforce Development Scholarship program (2), and the Midwest Auto Care Alliance.

Along with the five scholarships, Isaac is also receiving a fully funded fellowship opportunity through the Congress-Bundestag Youth Exchange for Young Professionals (CBYX) where he will have the opportunity to spend a year in Germany to study and work in the automotive field. The program includes intensive language training and a hands-on internship opportunity, which perfectly aligns with his career aspirations.

Looking ahead, Isaac has ambitious plans. After completing his studies in Germany, he intends to return to the United States to pursue a bachelor’s degree in operations management. His ultimate goal? To open his own automotive shop, where he can apply all of the knowledge and skills he’s gained along the way.

For Isaac, the best part of studying automotive technology is learning the specifics and intricacies of how a car functions and soaking up as much knowledge as he can. With passion, hard work, and a willingness to seize opportunities, anything is possible. And for Isaac, the road ahead is filled with possibilities!