Caltrans District 1 announced its 2024 Transportation Scholarship Recipient, who is Layla Mckenzie, a 2024 Fortuna High School graduate and is this year’s recipient of the Caltrans District 1 Transportation Scholarship.
Mckenzie will receive $2,250 to begin her education at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) this fall and will pursue a career in environmental science as a pre-biology major.
Mckenzie was selected from a dozen applicants based on her academic record, participation in school organizations and interest in a transportation career.
A resident of Hydesville in Humboldt County, McKenzie said she thrived in courses like agricultural biology and soil chemistry. She added, “I found “fulfillment and fascination in exploring the beauty of the natural world.”
Mckenzie went on that she is eager to further develop her skills in the environmental sciences at UCSB. “I envision myself conducting research, participating in internships, and collaborating on innovative projects that address pressing environmental challenges, from climate change to sustainable urban development.”
The District 1 scholarship supports the professional growth of a high school senior or college, university undergrad, vocational or technical school student seeking a career in transportation. Applicants must also be from or reside in Lake, Mendocino, Del Norte or Humboldt counties.
Cori Reed is the Caltrans Social Fund Chairperson. She noted there were a dozen applicants for the 2024 scholarship award of $2,250. It had been $1,500 previously but was increased in 2020 she recalled. “I’ve been involved with the scholarship since 2017, but I estimate it’s been existence since 1990,” she said. “All Caltrans districts statewide have interest in having students statewide getting involved with transportation industry and we have a history of supporting the next generation of Caltrans workers ascending to the ranks.”
Funding is provided by the District 1 Social Fund and the California Transportation Foundation (CTF). To learn more about CTF, please visit www.the-ctf.org
