2018 scholarship recipients, L to R: Connor Mitchell, Kelsey Coronno, Izaya Jahnke, Reid Williams, Rangi Moore.
Eastland Group has awarded more tertiary engineering scholarships than ever before, due to the exceptionally high calibre of local talent.
Each year, Eastland Group offers one or more scholarships to students from the region who are studying civil, mechanical, electrical or chemical and process engineering.
“We look for engineering students who demonstrate a special combination of attributes, including strong academic achievement, character, commitment and leadership potential,” says Eastland Group chief executive Matt Todd.
2018 has been an exceptional year for applications, and all the shortlisted candidates were outstanding.
In total, four Eastland Group tertiary engineering scholarships (worth $5,000 each) were awarded. A one-off merit scholarship ($2,000) was also awarded for the first time.
“This has been the biggest year to date for Eastland Group’s scholarship programme. That’s a reflection of the high calibre of the applicants and the great talent that our region is producing,” says Mr Todd.
Students can apply every year, which means they may receive ongoing financial support throughout their studies. They also have the opportunity to gain valuable work experience at Eastland Network, Eastland Port or Gisborne Airport during the summer holidays.
“Eastland Group’s tertiary engineering scholarships recognise that encouraging talented people is at the heart of our future success as a region,” says Mr Todd.
“I would like to congratulate Connor, Kelsey, Izaya, Reid and Rangi. Every one is a star, who’s likely to go on and make a positive contribution to New Zealand’s engineering industry. And they will all make Tairāwhiti proud.”
2018 Eastland Group tertiary engineering scholarship winners
Connor Mitchell is in his final year at Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology in Tauranga, studying for a diploma in engineering, majoring in civil and waterways. Connor was also awarded a scholarship last year, and worked with Eastland Port over the summer holidays. He impressed staff with his great attitude.
Kelsey Coronno is in her third year studying electrical engineering at Auckland University, and has received a scholarship from Eastland Group for the third time. Kelsey was based at Eastland Network over the holidays and became a valuable member of the team.
Izaya Jahnke has just started his engineering studies at Auckland University. He’s the first in his family to attend university, and is looking forward to setting a positive example for his younger siblings.
Reid Williams is in his second year (first professional year) at Canterbury University, studying mechanical engineering. Reid is passionate about motorsports and was one of the first intermediate year students to be accepted on the University of Canterbury motorsport team.
2018 Eastland Group special merit scholarship winner
Rangi Moore has started his first year at Otago Polytechnic, studying civil engineering. He received this scholarship in recognition of his high levels of motivation.