2026 Scholarship Winners Announced

The Building Contractors Association of Northeast Indiana (BCA) is proud to continue its investment in the future of our industry by awarding two 2026 Presidential Merit Scholarships to outstanding students pursuing careers in construction.

 Funded through BCA’s commitment to workforce development, these $2,500 scholarships recognize individuals who demonstrate not only academic excellence, but also the leadership, initiative, and hands-on experience that reflect the values of our membership.

 This year’s recipients—Benjamin Roth and Thomas Stureman—represent the next generation of talent that will help sustain and strengthen our industry.

Benjamin Roth, a graduating senior from Huntington North High School, will attend the University of Cincinnati to study Construction Management. A top 5% student and Student Council President, Benjamin has built a strong foundation in leadership, teamwork, and communication through his involvement in school and community activities.

 His early exposure to construction through hands-on family projects has sparked a clear career path—one that includes project management and, ultimately, business ownership. Benjamin’s drive and vision reflect the entrepreneurial spirit that defines many BCA members.

Thomas Stureman, a Construction Engineering student at Purdue University, is already making strides toward a successful career in the field. A valedictorian of Bishop Dwenger High School, Thomas continues to excel academically while taking on leadership roles in organizations such as the Purdue Grand Prix team and Beta Tau Academic Fraternity.

  His internship experience with Shambaugh & Son provides valuable real-world insight, and his focus on building strong industry relationships aligns closely with the collaborative nature of our member companies.

MEET PAST SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

BCA Presidential Merit Scholarship

The Building Contractors Association of Northeast Indiana established this scholarship program to recognize significant accomplishments and reward worthy students in furthering their education in a post-secondary, construction-related education program. Two scholarships for $2500 are available.

• Applicants shall be pursuing a minimum of an associate degree from an accredited college or university or studying under a BAT-approved construction apprenticeship program.
• Accepted programs fall under headings of architecture, construction, and engineering degrees applied to the discipline of construction. Non-construction majors are ineligible. 

Michael H. Kinder Jr. Memorial Scholarship

The family of Michael H. Kinder Jr. established this award to recognize accomplishments and achievements of a recent high school graduate or existing college student or apprentice who wishes to pursue (or is pursuing) a career in a construction trade (carpentry, bricklaying, plumbing, etc.) under a BAT-approved construction apprenticeship program or an associate or bachelor’s degree in a construction or civil-engineering related field. One scholarship in the amount of $2500 is available.

This scholarship is named in memory of Michael H. Kinder, Jr., who lived and breathed construction for 42 years while he was part owner of a local construction company. Mike’s love of all things construction continued until the day he died. He was a huge perfectionist in the work he and his company did, but he also had a huge heart, a bright smile, and a desire to help others learn and grow in the profession. Even though Mike was the “boss,” he ALWAYS arrived home from work dirty because he couldn’t resist helping his crews. He was hugely passionate about growing and developing the next generation of construction talent and would be proud to have this award in his name. He also volunteered for numerous organizations during his career and retirement, including being highly involved with the BCA, from which he won the Summit Award in 2003. We are seeking students who we believe share a passion for the construction industry similar to Mike’s, and we encourage you to do your best to convey your passion in this application.

BCA Corporate Scholarship with Indiana Tech