The Communique

Issue date: 4/29/04 Section: Feature

Media Credit: Kelli Kennon Russell Thier (above right) works on an engine with a classmate. Thier is one of five Auto Tech students in the nation to receive the AC Delco scholarship of $2,500.

Media Credit: Kelli Kennon There are 10 students throughout the United States receiving this award with different chosen fields.

"My brother got me my first job at a shop about five years ago," said Automotive Technology major Russell Thier. "Ever since that's what I wanted to do."

The Dyersville native is one of 10 students in the nation to receive a $2,500 AC Delco scholarship and one of only five recipients studying Automotive Technology. During his senior year of high school Thier sold AC Delco parts for the auto shop where he worked, which increased his chances of receiving the scholarship.

Thier said he chose Kirkwood because the school supplies the vehicles to work on, its close location, hands on experience and great instructors. "It seemed like the best school to go for automotive," said Thier.

Thier is a full time student who maintains a GPA in the 3.0 range. In addition to working at an auto shop in high school he is receiving hands-on training at John's Automotive on Johnson Avenue. "My boss really understands," said Thier. "He works with my school schedule and gives me lots of hours and experience."

"I hope to own my own business," he said. For now Thier plans to stay in Cedar Rapids and continue working at John's Automotive after graduating from Kirkwood next spring.

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