- CEDAR RAPIDS, IA--The NSCA Education Foundation and Bosch Security Systems, Inc., Communications Systems Division have awarded three $2,500 scholarships to students pursuing careers in the commercial electronic systems industry. Andrew Keil and Wade Kolata were chosen for the Robert Bosch scholarships and Gary Fine was selected as the first recipient of the Monte Wise scholarship.
- Keil is enrolled in the Audio Arts and Acoustics program at Columbia College Chicago. He said the constant evolution of technology and the savvy required to stay current as technology advances are what interest him most about the industry. After he graduates, he hopes to start his own contracting company and incorporate all forms of technology.
- Kolata is a student in Automated Systems & Robotics at Dunwoody College of Technology in Minneapolis. He gained professional experience as a live sound reinforcement technician and pro audio products specialist in sales and service. Kolata said his lifelong involvement in music was his primary source of hands-on exposure to electronic systems.
- “I feel the industry offers me the opportunity to combine my passion for creating and performing music with my keen interest and curiosity in electronics as an applied science,” Kolata said.
- Fine is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Audio Arts and Acoustics at Columbia College Chicago. He has held several jobs in the industry, working as a house engineer for a music venue and audio technician on a commercial video shoot, in addition to volunteering as a stagehand for Chicago sound companies at large shows. In particular, he finds the live audio industry challenging and intriguing, especially through technological advances and evolving aesthetic needs.
- “Bosch is happy to support the future of the industry through these scholarships,” said Daniel Nix, VP of sales, US South, Bosch Security Systems, Inc., and a member of the NSCA Education Foundation Board of Directors. “These individuals represent the future of our industry and we’re excited to contribute to their success as they prepare to enter our field. Gary Fine, in particular, exemplifies the legacy left by Monte Wise as a talented musician and dedicated scholar.”
- In partnership with the NSCA Education Foundation, Bosch Security Systems Communications Systems Division offers the Robert Bosch scholarships in memory of Robert Bosch, who founded the Robert Bosch GmbH, a German technology corporation. The Monte Wise scholarship was established in memory of the Bosch systems applications specialist’s untimely death in 2009.
- “In conjunction with Bosch, the NSCA Education Foundation is pleased to offer financial assistance to up-and-coming industry professionals,” said Andy Musci, NSCA Education Foundation president. “We look forward to welcoming them into our industry and benefiting from their new ideas and perspectives regarding electronic systems.”
