July 22, 2025
Three Grand Rapids Community College students are among the 11 West Michigan recipients of scholarships from Discover Manufacturing, a regional network of manufacturers committed to inspiring and investing in West Michigan talent.
Each year Discover Manufacturing offers annual scholarships ranging from $500-$2,000 to support students pursuing careers in manufacturing. Applicants are required to submit a 500-word essay explaining their interest in the field and the impact they hope to make in the industry. Awards are determined by the organization’s scholarship selection committee, and recipients may reapply for renewed funding the following year.
This year’s GRCC awardees include Colby Tucker, James White and Ryan Wheeler — each on their own path into the region’s growing advanced manufacturing sector.
A Head Start: Colby Tucker
Colby Tucker found his love for manufacturing during his sophomore year of high school.
“It was by chance I discovered manufacturing through my elective requirements. I realized I really loved it,” said Tucker. “I graduated high school this year and now I’m looking to expand my opportunity for growth at GRCC. I plan to transfer to Ferris State to get my bachelor’s degree.”
After touring Ferris State and learning about their seamless transfer options from GRCC’s Pre-Manufacturing Engineering Technology program, Tucker knew this was the path for him.
“I wanted to cut back the cost of college. I didn’t want to have massive debt when I graduated,” said Tucker. “I feel like I hit the jackpot. Seeing my tuition bill this semester made it even better knowing how affordable it is. Not only the price, but the facilities at GRCC are really incredible and high up there.”
Tucker received a $1,000 scholarship and plans to use the funds to offset the cost of books and a computer.
“I was so excited when I found out I won the $1,000 scholarship from Discover Manufacturing. Being able to use that money toward books and a computer is a huge help as I start out my college journey,” said Tucker. “I don’t stop until the job is done and I’m really looking forward to what the future holds, not only for manufacturing, but also for myself. This scholarship feels like my hard work continues to pay off.”
A Needed Refresher: James White
James White returned to school to pursue a degree in Manufacturing Design after several years in the workforce.
“Honestly, I never thought I would go to college. It was a financial aspect of my life I didn’t plan to take on,” said White. “When I went into manufacturing design it was with the hope of progressing my career in my current job to gain more stability.”
As a Michigan Reconnect Program recipient, White has experience in finding financial aid resources to help pay for his education. He applied for the Discover Manufacturing Scholarship last year and was awarded $1,000. He happily reapplied this year and was delighted to receive the same amount.
“I’m planning on graduating this year and hoping the scholarship will take me through graduation,” said White. “Working full time and going to school can be a tricky balance. I have a lot of personal financial needs as well, so having scholarships like this can make all the difference.”
Every Bit Helps: Ryan Wheeler
For Ryan Wheeler, the scholarship was a welcome surprise.
“I started the 985 Industrial Maintenance Applied Science degree program at GRCC instead of focusing on just getting a work training certificate,” Wheeler said. “I wanted to focus on a broader knowledge and that program made sense for me to get back to what I love, which is the manufacturing industry.”
Wheeler found the Discover Manufacturing Scholarship while searching online for additional grants. Working full time, he knew managing his time and money wisely would be key to completing his education. He submitted the application with confidence that his enthusiasm for manufacturing would shine through.
The scholarship helps support his educational journey and brings him closer to his long-term goals.
West Michigan’s advanced manufacturing industry continues to experience significant growth and Discover Manufacturing’s continued investment is helping students like Tucker, White and Wheeler contribute to that success.
Learn about Discover Manufacturing.
Learn more about GRCC’s Manufacturing Department.
This story was reported by Anjula Caldwell