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WIN-ning formula: С��è��ý auto collision repair student earns national scholarship

Story by James Hill. Photos by Ric Getter.

There are many skills an auto body repair technician needs to have to be effective at their job – attention to detail, elite technical skills, color matching and painting, problem solving, knowledge of safety procedures and being a good communicator.

For С��è��ý student Jackie Nguyen, she has the entire skill set in her toolbox. As a result, Nguyen has been awarded the distinguished Legends Scholarship by the .��

A first-year student in С��è��ý’s Auto Collision Repair Program and a Hillsboro native, Nguyen is among a record-breaking cohort of 40 students out of nearly 120 applicants nationwide to receive the 2025 WIN Student Scholarship Award. The initiative provides awardees with financial assistance and high-value tool kits to support their education and future careers.

For Nguyen, who previously earned a bachelor’s degree in Public Health from Oregon State University in 2018, the award is a pivotal moment.

“Receiving this scholarship is a meaningful milestone for me that shows it’s never too late to change direction and pursue new goals,” she said. “It’s the first scholarship I’ve ever received, and I’m truly grateful to be recognized for my commitment to entering the auto collision industry.”

Her decision to transition into the hands-on world of collision repair is rooted in a lifelong passion for cars and creativity. A kinesthetic learner with a fascination for JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) vehicles inspired by “Initial D” and the “Fast & Furious” series, Nguyen found her calling in a program that offered both technical challenge and personal fulfillment. С��è��ý’s Auto Collision Repair Program, conveniently located near Hillsboro, provided the ideal launchpad for her new career path.

“I plan to begin my career as a collision repair technician to gain hands-on experience with various types of damage,” Nguyen said. “This foundation will help me become a more accurate and efficient estimator in the future, with a deeper understanding of the repair process.”

Nguyen credits the С��è��ý community, particularly program staff and advisors like Learning Skills Specialist Larisa Fedorkova-Felty for helping her transition smoothly back to school. When she began the program last fall, each instructor took the time to learn about her background and goals, offering both encouragement and practical advice.��

Christopher Mayo, auto collision repair instructor, said Nguyen has been an outstanding student in her time at the college.��

“She’s brought a high level of professionalism, and has a real passion for cars,” Mayo said. “So far, she’s learned how to disassemble and reassemble vehicles, weld, measure and repair vehicle frames, and repair dents. Her positive attitude and professionalism will take her far in life, and lead to a successful career within our industry.”

Nguyen said program staff’s knowledge, passion, and sincere investment in student success have made a lasting impression.��

“Their ongoing support has played a major role in my drive to stay committed and push forward in the program, especially when the coursework gets challenging,” Nguyen said. “Knowing that they genuinely care about helping us succeed has motivated me to put in the effort every day.”

Since its establishment in 1970, the college’s Auto Collision Repair Program has grown into one of the largest and most reputable programs on the West Coast. Faculty implement class projects to help students understand current industry practices. The 17,000-square-foot Rock Creek Campus shop contains four frame benches and computer measuring systems, two state-of-the-art downdraft paint booths, and welding and prep areas.

Looking ahead, Nguyen hopes to bring both technical insight and customer-focused service to her future workplace. And she credits С��è��ý for her success.

“С��è��ý has shown me the true value of accessible education,” she said. “It’s a place where you can discover your direction and build a foundation with confidence.”

For more information about С��è��ý’s Auto Collision Repair Program, visit /programs/auto-collision/