Ten students from Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and one student from the Mississippi State University’s Engineering on the Coast program received $1,000 scholarships from Chevron during a luncheon held September 5 at MGCCC’s Jackson County Campus.

The event celebrated the long-standing partnership between MGCCC and Chevron, highlighting the company’s continued commitment to supporting students pursuing careers in Process Operations, Instrumentation and Controls, and Engineering.

Since partnering with MGCCC in 2006, Chevron has awarded more than 120 scholarships and hired more than 200 MGCCC graduates. The scholarships are part of the Chevron Ambassador Program, launched in 2022, which creates pathways for students from high school to career success.

“Chevron is proud to continue investing in the next generation of leaders in energy and engineering,” said Zac Byrd, Chevron Pascagoula Refinery Operations Manager. “These students represent the innovation and dedication we value, and we are excited to see the impact they will make in the future workforce.”

Among this year’s recipients were:

• Jack D. Hester, of Gautier, a mechanical engineering major and member of the MGCCC Honors College, who plans to transfer to MSU’s Engineering on the Coast program. “This scholarship will help me manage my student debt,” Hester said.
• Timothy Deal, of Hurley, a mechanical engineering major and member of the Reflections Team, Campus Activities Board, and Student Government Association. He said, “Receiving this scholarship benefits me tremendously with the financial part of college, but also keeps me accountable and motivated to keep my grades up to par.”
• Aiden McPeak, of Ocean Springs, an industrial engineering major and member of the STEM Club. He said, “In five years I hope to be an engineer for Chevron and hopefully be starting my family. This scholarship allows me to focus on my studies and getting an internship rather than working to pay tuition.”
• Joseph Parrish, of Gautier, majoring in Instrumentation and Controls Technology and Robotics Automation. “Having this scholarship helps ease the financial burden of school for myself and my family,” he said.

“Chevron has been an outstanding partner to MGCCC and our students,” said Dr. Suzi Brown, vice president of MGCCC’s Student Services, Enrollment Strategies, and Advancement. “Their generosity ensures that more students have the opportunity to pursue their education, prepare for rewarding careers, and make a lasting impact in our communities.”

The scholarships represent more than financial support—they serve as encouragement for students to stay focused on their educational goals while preparing for careers in high-demand industries.