SILICON VALLEY CHAPTER
CONGRATULATIONS TO CFMA SILICON VALLEY'S 2023 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS


FIRST PLACE WINNER - $10,000 SCHOLARSHIP

Garrett Hutchinson

Garrett will be entering his final year as an MBA student at Indiana University, specializing in accounting and finance. He aspires to bring his academic skills to the professional world to drive efficiency, deliver strategic value, and contribute to the growth and success of organizations in the accounting and finance related fields. As a project accountant at Truebeck Construction, he focused on automating accounting processes, streamlining reconciliations, and implementing strategies for improved efficiency and cost management in the accounting department. His experience as a financial accountant and consultant with GreenTransit in Poland earlier this year allowed him to develop cross-cultural communication skills in an international business landscape. Additionally, Garrett has dedicated time with Onyx + East in the real estate sector, conducting research and creating competitive strategies for differentiation in new markets. With his determination and academic background, Garrett aims to thrive in the professional landscape, making a meaningful impact through his expertise in accounting and finance.


SECOND PLACE WINNER - $8,000 SCHOLARSHIP

Lucas Crane

My name is Lucas Crane and I just finished my freshman year at Purdue University. I am majoring in Construction Management and earned a spot on the Dean’s list for both semesters. My interest in construction originated from completing my eagle scout project where I worked with a retired construction manager to build a large cabinet for my high school band. I have a full-time internship in Silicon Valley with a large general contracting company named Whiting-Turner as a Project Engineer Intern for the summer. For my internship, I learn about construction by spending time in the office and on the field where I learn one on one with project managers and superintendents. I am also a member of the American Society of Healthcare Engineering where we attend conferences such as the PDC Summit in Phoenix during March while also volunteering in service activities with Habitat for Humanity where we help build houses for those in need.


THIRD PLACE WINNER - $5,000 SCHOLARSHIP

Cole Lewis

I am Cole Lewis; I am from Fremont California and attend Cal Poly Slo where I study Construction Management. At school I am involved with our AGC as well as ASCM clubs as well as the Cal Poly Penguins, the dirt bike club on campus! Outside of school I love to surf, mountain bike, hike and run. A fun fact about me is I can solve a rubix cube in under 15 seconds! After I graduate college, I plan on working for a GC either in the Bay Area or San Diego. This summer I am working for XL Construction in the Bay Area as a field engineer! I am thankful for this opportunity to learn and am excited to continue learning and growing


THIRD PLACE WINNER - $5,000 SCHOLARSHIP

Paige Melinauskas

Paige will be a junior at the University of Notre Dame this fall. She is a Finance major in the Mendoza College of Business with a Business Technology minor. She has been involved with multiple different service organizations throughout high school and college. At Notre Dame, she was a member of her grade's Class Council and she also worked as a Teacher's Assistant.

This fall, Paige will be studying abroad for a semester in Rome, Italy.


FOURTH PLACE WINNER - $4,000 SCHOLARSHIP

Edwin Moreno

Edwin Moreno is pursuing a degree in Construction Technology at San Jose City College (SJCC), Edwin's passion for the industry was ignited during his eight years of dedicated service in the United States Marine Corps. He earned his contractor’s license in the state of California. Edwin is also the esteemed Construction Club President at SJCC, where he serves and volunteers to inspire the next generation of construction professionals.

Armed with a certification in OSHA-10, he places utmost importance on safety, ensuring construction projects thrive without compromising the well-being of workers. Moreover, his vision encompasses empowering fellow veterans with construction job opportunities, recognizing the immense potential and unique skills they bring to the table. With a winning combination of experience, education, and heart, Edwin Moreno hopes to leave a lasting impression on those around him, transforming the landscape of construction in Silicon Valley while uplifting the lives of veterans seeking meaningful careers.


FOURTH PLACE WINNER - $4,000 SCHOLARSHIP

Ivan Gonzalez

I am from the bay area. I enjoy doing street photography, listening to music, and learning. I plan to be a high school history teacher one day. But before that I will be attending Santa Clara University as a history major. Thank you so much for the scholarship opportunity! Go Broncos!