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Eugene Robeson Scholarship Application LJA 10.30.2025
Application for: Eugene Robeson Memorial Scholarship
EUGENE “GENE” ROBESON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP: HONORING A LEGACY OF SERVICE
The Southern California Fire Mechanics Association (SCFMA), together with the California Fire Mechanics Academy Inc. (CFMA), awards the Eugene “Gene” Robeson Memorial Scholarship annually during the Fall Mechanics Academy held in Southern California. This scholarship was created to honor the memory and enduring contributions of Eugene Robeson, who played a foundational role in the California Fire Mechanics Association’s establishment in 1967. Eugene Robeson’s commitment to the Association was evident throughout his life. As one of the founding members, he was actively involved from the organization’s inception and remained dedicated until his passing in 2002. Over the course of his long tenure, Gene Robeson served in every position on the Association’s Board, making a lasting impact on the growth and development of the Fire Mechanics Association.
In addition to his work on the Board, Gene Robeson was instrumental in founding the annual California Fire Mechanics Academy. His influence extended into the classroom, where he served as an Academy instructor for several years, generously sharing his expertise and passion for the profession with others in the field.
SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS
The Eugene Robeson Memorial Scholarship is awarded to a single, deserving student who is currently an active member of the Southern California Fire Mechanics Association (SCFMA). Applicants must be currently paid member of the SCFMA and has attended at least four meetings during the current calendar year. This scholarship is intended for individuals seeking to further their professional development by attending the annual California Fire Mechanics Academy Fall Academy. Recipients of the scholarship will have their tuition covered for the entire week of the Academy. In addition to tuition, the award includes all student class handout materials normally provided during the Academy week and also grants access to all scheduled functions associated with the CFMA Fall Academy. It is important to note that transportation and housing expenses are not included as part of the scholarship. These costs must be covered independently by the scholarship recipient.
SELECTION PROCESS
The SCFMA Board of Directors is responsible for selecting the scholarship recipient. All scholarship applications must be submitted to the SCFMA Board of Directors by June 1st to be considered for the CFMA Fall Academy.
COMMITMENT TO PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
The Eugene Robeson Memorial Scholarship reflects a strong dedication to enhancing the expertise and capabilities of Emergency Vehicle Technicians across Southern California. By providing financial support for professional development opportunities, this scholarship enables motivated individuals to further their education and skills, ultimately benefiting the emergency services sector. It encourages those with a passion for serving their communities to pursue ongoing learning and growth, ensuring that emergency response teams are supported by highly trained and knowledgeable technicians.
Class or Course requested: ______________________________________________________________
Eugene Robeson Scholarship Application LJA 10.30.2025
SECTION I: PERSONAL INFORMATION
Name: _____________________________________________________________________________________
Address: ___________________________________________________________________________________
City: ____________________________ State: ____________________ Zip: ____________________________
Telephone: _________ (work) ____________________ (home) ___________________ (cell) ______________
Email address: ______________________________________________________________________________
Highest Level of Education: ☐ High School ☐ College ☐ Other: _______________________________________
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Employment History: _________________________________________________________________________
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Current Agency/Company: _____________________________________________________________________
Position/Title: __________________________ Years’ Experience: ____________________________________
List of any mechanical certifications currently held (ASE/EVT/Other):____________________________________
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List of any professional affiliations: ______________________________________________________________
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SECTION II: PERSONAL STATEMENT
To help the SCFMA Board of Directors make an informed decision about your scholarship application, you are encouraged to provide additional information that supports your candidacy. Please include in a separate paper a personal statement that outlines your educational and career goals and aspirations. This section should detail your motivations for pursuing advancement in the field of fire apparatus mechanics and describe how you plan to contribute meaningfully to the profession.
If applicable, please also include a statement of financial need. This will assist the Board in understanding how receiving this scholarship could impact on your ability to attend the CFMA Fall Academy. Sharing these details will give the Board a clearer picture of your dedication to fire mechanics and your commitment to professional growth. Your thoughtful response to this section is vital for the SCFMA Board of Directors as they carefully consider your application for the Eugene Robeson Memorial Scholarship.
SECTION III: LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
As part of your application for the Eugene Robeson Memorial Scholarship, you are required to submit at least one professional letter of recommendation from your current employer. This letter should provide a comprehensive overview of your qualifications, specific job responsibilities, and relevant experience in the field of fire mechanics.
The letter of recommendation is an essential component of your application, as it enables the SCFMA Board of Directors to thoroughly evaluate your professional background and assess your potential as a scholarship candidate. To ensure the letter is most effective, it should offer detailed insight into your skills, work ethic, and your dedication to the fire mechanics profession.
SECTION IV: REVIEW PROCESS
All scholarship applications must be submitted to the Southern California Fire Mechanics Association by June 1st. Once received, each application will undergo a careful review during the SCFMA June Board of Directors meeting. During this meeting, the Board conducts a thorough evaluation of all applicants and will select the recipient of the Eugene Robeson Memorial Scholarship. The individual chosen to receive the scholarship will be personally notified of their award no later than July 1st. As part of the recognition, the scholarship winner may be invited to attend the CFMA hospitality night. At this event, the recipient will be formally introduced and acknowledged as the recipient of the Eugene Robeson Memorial Scholarship.
Recipients are expected to wear appropriate attire for the occasion, as this demonstrates respect for both the event and the academy. The Southern California Fire Mechanics Association and the California Fire Mechanics Academy appreciate this gesture and look forward to celebrating the achievements of the scholarship recipient.
Please submit your completed scholarship application to the Southern California Fire Mechanics Association by either of the following methods:
Mail to: SCMFA
P.O. Box 8463
Anaheim, CA 92812
or
Email to: president@californiafiremechanics.org
We kindly ask that all applications be submitted by the specified deadline to ensure consideration. Thank you for your interest in the Eugene Robeson Memorial Scholarship, and we look forward to reviewing your application.
Sincerely,
Southern California Fire Mechanics Association