Jacob Workman is one of five NOVA students to receive a 2022 Lockheed Martin Vocational Scholarship. Workman, who is working toward an engineering degree, has already been in talks with the company about future employment prospects.

Launched in 2020, Lockheed Martin established its Vocational Scholarship program to support students of all ages participating in skills-based training in engineering, technology and advanced manufacturing fields. The Vocational Scholarship program is a critical component of Lockheed Martin’s investment in workforce development and education. The program awards up to $5,000 to cover the cost of courses to 150 students nationally. 

What brought you to NOVA?

Many of my coworkers who attended NOVA spoke very highly of their professors. The small class sizes and lower cost of tuition were enticing compared to other colleges. I wanted to avoid burdening myself with excessive student loan debt, so I saw NOVA as the best option.

What are you studying or plan to study at NOVA?

I am currently pursuing an associate degree in Engineering at NOVA.

Tell Us About Your Experience at NOVA; ie, professors you’ve liked and friends you’ve met:

My experience at NOVA has been nothing but positive. The multiple campuses make it easy to find classes that fit my work schedule. All my professors have been extremely helpful, especially my math Professor Michael Wallace, engineering Professor Nina Lord and chemistry Professor Mitra Jahangeri. Prof. Lord liked my engineering group project so much that she reached out to her connections in the manufacturing field so that we could bring our product to market. Prof. Jahangeri wrote the recommendation that helped me win the Lockheed Martin Vocational Scholarship, which paid for my second year at NOVA

What would you tell a student coming to NOVA?

I would tell a NOVA student to make an effort to connect with their professors. The reason they're at NOVA is because they have a passion for teaching and want to see their students succeed. Going to office hours for help the first time can be intimidating, but talking to your professors will always improve your understanding of class material. Take some classes outside your comfort zone because you never know what might interest you. If you are struggling financially with tuition, apply for as many scholarships as you can. Many students neglect these opportunities but it can relieve a tremendous amount of financial stress.

Where do you see yourself after NOVA or what career pursuits are you exploring?

After NOVA, I hope to transfer to either Virginia Tech or Georgia Tech to pursue a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. Lockheed Martin has reached out about employment opportunities from the scholarship, and I would love to work for the company in the future