NAPA relaunches IMPACT Leadership Group Scholarship
Driving the future forward one scholarship at a time.
The asphalt pavement industry thrives on innovation, dedication, and a steady influx of skilled talent. To directly support the next generation of professionals, the IMPACT Leadership Group is officially relaunching its premier scholarship program in 2027.
For member companies and industry partners, this program represents a critical tool for workforce development and a seamless way to invest in the operational talent of tomorrow.
Scholarship Structure and Eligibility
Managed under the NAPA Research and Education Foundation (NAPAREF), a 501(c)(3) organization, the revitalized scholarship aims to attract, develop, and retain motivated individuals pursuing vital education at accredited trade and technical schools across the United States.
The IMPACT Leadership Group Scholarship is strategically designed to maximize national reach while addressing regional workforce needs. Individual scholarships will be awarded across NAPA’s four Regional Advisory Council areas: Southeast, West, Northcentral, and Northeast.
Regional Scholarships
Up to two scholarships will be awarded per region annually, depending on application volume and available funding.
Core Eligibility
Applicants must be U.S. citizens enrolled in accredited trade or technical schools, pursuing coursework, certifications, or programs pertinent to the asphalt paving industry.
Selection Rubric
To ensure that funding is directed toward students with the highest potential for long-term industry impact, the scholarship task group utilizes a comprehensive evaluation rubric.
School Partnerships
NAPA has established active educational partnerships with premier institutions in each region to streamline the selection process.
Proven Success: A Testimony of Long-Term Retention
The true value of the IMPACT scholarship is best demonstrated by the long-term career trajectories of its past recipients. Elliott Kresse, a government estimator for NAPA member company Ajax Paving Industries of Florida, is a prime example of how early industry support secures lifelong talent.
Reflecting on his journey, Kresse shared how receiving a $5,000 scholarship through the committee during his Civil Engineering studies at college served as a critical turning point. At the time, he was balancing his coursework with an internship at Ajax Paving.
“More than just the financial help, it meant a lot to be recognized by leaders in the industry. It really validated the path I was on and confirmed that I was heading in the right direction. It gave me the confidence to focus on growing within the company and helped set the stage for my career moving forward.” -Elliott Kresse, scholarship recipient working at Ajax Paving Industries of Florida
Twelve years later, Kresse remains a vital asset to Ajax Paving, having progressed from Project Engineer to Project Manager, and now into estimating. His career highlights the precise return on investment that the IMPACT scholarship aims to duplicate across trade and technical schools nationwide.
How to Support the IMPACT Scholarship
The growth and sustainability of this scholarship rely on the generosity of industry stakeholders. Donations are welcomed from individuals, families, corporations, and organizations dedicated to securing a robust workforce pipeline.
To contribute, visit the online donation portal. Your contribution is invested directly in the students who will build our shared future.
Because the program is managed under NAPAREF, contributions offer tax-deductible benefits, allowing companies to blend strategic corporate social responsibility with practical workforce development.
