Meet Elijah Thomas, recipient of a $3,000 ACE Scholarship, whose passion for innovation and hands-on learning is already shaping a remarkable future. A graduate of CCTEC and dual-enrollment student at Rowan College of South Jersey, Elijah is earning both his high school diploma and an associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering Technology. With plans to continue his education in Mechanical Engineering, his goal is to become a project manager who brings smart, efficient solutions to life.

Elijah credits the ACE Mentor Program for helping him understand the collaborative nature of the built environment: “ACE has helped me to see that those in architecture, engineering, and construction are all pivotal in bringing an idea into reality — and that making mistakes is among the best ways to improve the final result.” From engineering shop class to crafting his own wooden surfboard, Elijah blends creativity, curiosity, and coastal inspiration in all he does. We’re proud to support his next wave of success!