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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Sheri Hamilton, VISION Conference Manager
sheri@visionkc.com
Gladstone, MO – March 31, 2026 – VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Memorial Scholarships, awarded to three automotive professionals dedicated to furthering their education and advancing their careers in the automotive service industry. These scholarships, made possible by generous industry supporters, honor the legacies of respected professionals whose contributions continue to shape the industry.
Bella Contreras has been awarded the Tim Cummings Management Scholarship. After many years of battling Multiple System Atrophy, Tim Cummings passed away in 2021. To honor his legacy, his employer, Rick’s Automotive in Springfield, Missouri, established an ongoing VISION scholarship in his name. Bella, from Brazzeal Automotive in Tampa, Florida, is attending VISION for the first time and is committed to growing as a leader while strengthening her family’s automotive business through continued education and hands-on involvement. Her dedication to learning, leadership, and building a lasting legacy makes her a deserving recipient of this scholarship.
Kaya Sezer is the 2026 recipient of the Anthony Williams Memorial Scholarship, funded by Advance Professional. Anthony Williams was widely respected across the industry and served in many roles, including his final position as Curriculum Designer with Advance Professional. Known for his passion for improving the training experience for automotive professionals, Anthony’s legacy continues through this scholarship. Kaya, an automotive student at Hennepin Technical College in Minneapolis, Minnesota, is fully committed to building a strong future in the industry. While working two jobs to support their education, Kaya actively seeks every opportunity to expand their knowledge and network with industry professionals.
Juan Saucedo-Torres has been selected as the recipient of the Harvey Chan Technical Scholarship. Harvey Chan was a dear friend and mentor to many in the automotive community and a longtime supporter of VISION. Through the Technicians of Tomorrow Educational Foundation (TTEF), this scholarship continues to honor his dedication to education and mentorship within the industry. Juan, from Euro Clinic in Santa Clara, California, is focused on advanced diagnostics and continuous improvement while building a long-term career in automotive service. His commitment to professional growth and leadership within his shop reflects the values Harvey Chan championed throughout his career.
VISION’s memorial scholarships ensure that financial barriers do not prevent passionate professionals from pursuing advanced training and career development. By providing access to high-quality education and networking opportunities, these scholarships help continue the legacies of industry leaders while supporting the next generation of automotive professionals.
For more information on VISION’s memorial scholarships and other opportunities, please visit mwaca.org/awards/memorial-scholarships/.
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VISION Hi-Tech Training & Expo, presented by the Midwest Auto Care Alliance, is the industry’s premier event providing the opportunity for automotive professionals to expand their knowledge and gain new skills, all while networking with leading automotive service industry professionals. VISION offers more than 120 cutting-edge management, technical, and educator training courses and features a 60,000 square-foot exhibit hall showcasing the latest tools, equipment, and technology. With a focus on delivering top-notch training and networking opportunities, VISION brings together professionals from across the automotive service spectrum. For over 30 years, VISION has been the go-to conference for staying ahead in the dynamic and ever-evolving automotive landscape. Information about MWACA and VISION can be found at www.mwaca.org and www.visionkc.com.
