Scholarship Award: $7,500
Molalla, Oregon
3rd term apprentice at JATC Operating Engineers Local 701

Chelsea Asselmeier is from Molalla, Oregon. She is a third-term crane operator apprentice with the Operating Engineers Local 701 apprenticeship program, currently employed by McDonald Excavating. She is working toward journeyman status with long-term goals of advancing into a foreman or superintendent role and ultimately becoming a union representative. Chelsea is passionate about giving back through volunteer work in the recovery field, enjoys weightlifting, and treasures outdoor adventures with her daughter, especially hiking and camping.

Scholarship Award: $7,500
Sherwood, Oregon
Freshman at Boise State University

Jackson Bell, a recent high school graduate from Sherwood, Oregon, will be entering his first year at Boise State University to study Construction Management. With aspirations of becoming a project manager, Jackson is committed to learning from his mentors and advancing his career in the industry. Upon receiving the Schweiger Scholarship, he shared, “Being a recipient of this scholarship will motivate me to work even harder earning good grades because I want to honor the Schweiger family with my work showing respect, honesty, and loyalty.” Outside the classroom, Jackson enjoys playing football and runs his own car detailing business.

Scholarship Award: $7,500
Ketchikan, Alaska
Sophomore at Oregon State University Cascades

Phoenix Boles of Ketchikan, Alaska, is entering his sophomore year at Oregon State University–Cascades, where he is pursuing a degree in Construction Engineering Management. Inspired by his father and grandfather, Phoenix is passionate about the construction industry and dreams of one day starting his own company. Reflecting on the impact of the scholarship, Phoenix shared, “Receiving this scholarship would not only relieve financial stress but also connect me with mentors and real-world experience in construction. It would help me become the builder and leader I want to be.” In his free time, Phoenix stays active through his involvement in a running and climbing club, and he also volunteers weekly at the Oregon State Food Pantry.

Scholarship Award: $10,000
Butte, Montana
Senior at Montana State University

Max Demarais is from Butte, Montana, and is going into his Senior year at Montana State University, where he is majoring in Construction Engineering Technology. He has had a very successful college experience so far, including winning 1st place prize at the ASC Reno Estimating and Bidding competition with his Heavy Civil Team. Since starting college in 2022, Max has maintained his place on both the Scholar and Dean's lists at Montana State. With such achievements, Max has a bright future in the construction industry. Flynn Murray, one of his college professors, had this to say about his future, “I have no doubt that he will succeed in this field, but also give back generously to those who helped him along the way.”

Scholarship Award: $5,000
Tigard, Oregon
1st Term Carpenter Apprentice NW College of Construction

Trevor Engen is a recent high school graduate from Tigard, Oregon, planning to attend the NW College of Construction to pursue a career in Carpentry. Trevor has remained on his high school honor role for all four years and participates in a variety of sports. Outside of school he has been an active member in Boy Scouts, earning his eagle scout rank and has been gaining work experience with Cedar Mill Construction Company. Working for them has fueled his passion for the construction industry, especially how things are built. His personal goal is, “to become a skilled carpenter known not only for building solid structures but also for being dependable, honest, and hardworking.”

Scholarship Award: $7,500
Everett, Washington
Senior at the University of Washington

Luis Garcia-Luna is from Everett, Washington. He is entering his senior year at the University of Washington, where he is majoring in Construction Management. After graduation, his goal is to begin working as a project engineer and, over time, transition into a project manager role. He has been actively involved in both the AGC and NECA student chapters, serving as a role model and mentor to younger students. His hands-on experience in plumbing and electrical construction has strengthened his ability to communicate effectively between tradespeople and office personnel, having worked in both environments himself. Upon receiving the scholarship, Luis shared, “With the support of this scholarship, I'll continue pushing forward with that same work ethic and commitment, knowing that success is something earned through effort, not entitlement.”

Scholarship Award: $10,000
Wilsonville, Oregon
Senior at the University of Arizona

Kellen Hartford, from Wilsonville, Oregon, is entering his final year at the University of Arizona, where he is pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering. A proud three-time recipient of this scholarship, Kellen has expressed deep appreciation for the continued support and plans to pay it forward in his future career. He aspires to become a project manager. This summer, Kellen will be interning for the third consecutive year with Perlo Construction. Jordan Peterson, a Project Director at Perlo Construction, shared, “Kellen inspires those around him to strive for excellence and is always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need. His positive attitude, integrity, and humility make him a pleasure to work with and a trusted confidant to many.” With his strong work ethic and passion for the industry, Kellen is poised to be a valuable asset to the construction field upon graduation.

Scholarship Award: $15,000
Saint Paul, Oregon
Junior at Oregon State University

Michael Hiller, from Saint Paul, Oregon, is entering his junior year at Oregon State University, where he is studying Construction Engineering Management. A two-time scholarship recipient, Michael continues to demonstrate leadership and dedication both in and out of the classroom. He currently serves as president of his fraternity, Alpha Gamma Rho, and as vice president of Oregon State’s AGC student chapter. In addition to his academic commitments, Michael works part-time at Hoffman Construction, following a successful summer internship. Joshua Faulkner, a project superintendent at Hoffman, shared in his recommendation, “Mike has been able to seamlessly interject his passion and knowledge to the project as an intern as I’ve not seen before from someone so young.” Michael expressed deep gratitude to the Schweiger community, sharing that its support will always be a meaningful part of his life.

Scholarship Award: $15,000
Bend, Oregon
Junior at Oregon State University

Nick Hopper, from Bend, Oregon, is entering his junior year at Oregon State University, where he is pursuing a major in Construction Engineering Management with minors in Business Finance and Geomatics Engineering. Since 2023, Nick has earned a place on Oregon State’s academic honor roll, reflecting his commitment to academic excellence. In addition to his studies, Nick serves as president of the AGC student chapter at OSU and is an active member of the university’s Heavy Civil Competition Team. His long-term goal is to become a superintendent with a heavy civil contractor, where he can help lead complex projects. When reflecting on the Scholarship, Nick shared, “One of the things I most admire about the Schweiger Foundation is its embrace of the legacy of Konrad and Forrest - transforming a tragic loss into inspiration and an opportunity to continue their impact. It represents everything I strive to embody: hard work, passion, creativity, and supporting those around me.”

Scholarship Award: $5,000
Brush Prairie, Washington
Sophomore at Oregon State University

Ryker Kitchen, from Brush Prairie, Washington, is entering his sophomore year at Oregon State University, where he is pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering. Reflecting on his first year, he shared how much he’s enjoyed diving into engineering coursework and becoming more engaged in the field. Ryker is focused on excelling in the construction industry, driven by a desire to support those he cares about and build lasting relationships. He is a two-time scholarship recipient and is excited to begin his summer internship with Gunderson Marine & Iron. Last summer, he interned with Advanced American Construction, where he made a strong impression. Zach Jenkins, the project engineer who oversaw him, said, “Ryker has a bright future ahead of him... I’m certain he’ll excel in his studies and grow into another leader in the construction industry.”

Scholarship Award: $5,000
Portland, Oregon
Junior at the University of Kentucky

Noah Koopman, from Portland, Oregon, is entering his junior year at the University of Kentucky, where he is pursuing a degree in Civil Engineering. A proud honor roll and dean’s list student, Noah is driven by a passion for building projects that support communities, with a strong focus on environmental sustainability. His long-term goal is to become a project manager who leads with purpose and impact. Noah recently completed a successful internship with Perlo Construction and has committed to returning for another year. Upon receiving the Schweiger Memorial Scholarship, Noah shared his excitement to be part of the Foundation’s legacy and to connect with a network of professionals and industry leaders who can share their experiences and help guide him as he continues his educational journey.

Scholarship Award: $7,500
Milwaukie, Oregon
2nd term apprentice at JATC Operating Engineers Local 701
United States Veteran

Matthew Mitchell, from Milwaukie, Oregon, is a second-term crane operator apprentice with the Operating Engineers Local 701 Apprenticeship Program. He is employed by Conway Construction Company and working toward journeyman status. A proud U.S. veteran, Matthew has received several commendations for his service, including the Armed Forces Service Medal, War on Terrorism Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Humanitarian Service Medal. Although his path wasn’t linear, he was inspired by his father to become an Operating Engineer, a field that aligns with his love of working outdoors, hands-on tasks, and team collaboration. His long-term goal is to become a foreman or superintendent. Upon receiving the Schweiger Memorial Scholarship, Matthew shared his gratitude: “Being a recipient of the Schweiger Memorial Scholarship Fund would greatly increase my resources and, in turn, give my education and career as an Operating Engineer the edge that it deserves.”

Scholarship Award: $5,000
Seattle, Washington
Senior at the University of Washington
United States Veteran

Casey Nelson, of Seattle, Washington, is entering his final year at the University of Washington, where he is majoring in Construction Management. Prior to attending UW, he earned his Associate of Arts degree in Business. Casey is a proud U.S. Army veteran, awarded the Army Commendation Medal, two Army Achievement Medals, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, and three Certificates of Achievement. During his deployment, he helped build an elementary school in the Philippines, an experience that solidified his passion for the construction industry. Upon receiving the scholarship, Casey shared, “I’d like to continue my involvement with the program throughout my career, whether it be through mentorship or networking opportunities. Eventually, I hope to be in a financial position where I can donate to this scholarship fund to help more students and trade workers who come from similar backgrounds and share a similar passion for the construction industry.”

Scholarship Award: $5,000
Newberg, Oregon
Senior at the University of Nevada

Kelly Strobeck, from Newberg, Oregon, is entering her senior year at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where she is majoring in Architecture. At UNLV, she serves as a Project Manager for the Freedom by Design program within the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) chapter. Kelly has maintained strong academic performance while developing into a thoughtful and collaborative designer. Now a three-time scholarship recipient, she reflected, “More than just financial support, this scholarship has given me the tools, credibility, and confidence to grow as a future architect who values collaboration, precision, and intention. It has shaped my perspective on how architecture and construction go hand in hand, inspiring me to approach every project with the goal of creating purposeful, meaningful spaces.” Kelly’s goal is to become an architect who bridges the gap between builders, engineers, and tradespeople, fostering collaboration across every stage of the building process.

Scholarship Award: $7,500
Lake Oswego, Oregon
Senior at Oregon State University

Cahleal Walker, from Lake Oswego, Oregon, is entering his senior year at Oregon State University, where he is majoring in Mechanical Engineering. His goal is to merge mechanical engineering principles with real-world construction applications, combining technical knowledge with hands-on field experience. Last summer, Cahleal interned with Advanced American Construction, gaining valuable industry exposure. This summer, he’ll be interning with Gunderson Marine and Iron. He enjoys solving problems and finding ways to bring his ideas to life in the field. Reflecting on what the scholarship means to him, Cahleal shared, “It is proof that I am not alone in this fight, that someone, somewhere believed I deserve a chance… I strive for the Schweiger Memorial Fund reward because it represents not only a chance for me to secure my future but also an opportunity to break the vicious cycle of struggle that has defined my past.”

Scholarship Award: $7,500
Molalla, Oregon
1st Term apprentice at JATC Operating Engineers Local 701 program

Caiden Zagala, from Molalla, Oregon, is a first-term Heavy Duty Repairer apprentice in the Operating Engineers Local 701 program. Employed by Advanced American Construction, he is building a career as a skilled and dependable heavy-duty mechanic, focused on maintaining and repairing heavy machinery and marine equipment. Driven by curiosity and determination, Caiden thrives on solving complex mechanical challenges and aims to be a reliable teammate who keeps critical projects moving. His supervisor, Tony Hurtado, shared, “Caiden approaches every task with a level of commitment and precision that sets him apart. His strong problem-solving abilities and willingness to collaborate make him an invaluable member of any team.” A second-time recipient of the scholarship, Caiden expressed his deep gratitude for receiving the award again, noting that it continues to motivate him to grow and push himself to new heights.