Scholar Profile: Nick Vanderhei

Nick’s vocational goal was to become a master technician in automotive, diesel and heavy equipment. As a teen, he spent his free time working on cars and studying automotive videos. But in the blink of an eye, Nick’s future was in jeopardy when he was in a car accident that left him with a traumatic brain injury.

“I had to relearn how to walk and talk properly. It changed me in many other ways, mentally also,” he explained. “I had to relearn myself. I have found that I am one to not give up. I keep moving forward and working on things. I have always been a very hands-on learner, fascinated in taking things apart and rebuilding them.”

Fortunately, he recovered and with the help of Cypress scholarships, was able to attend Fort Myers Technical College and complete their automotive mechanics program to pursue his goal.

While attending school, Nick could be seen on the Cypress Cove campus securing the property and patrolling as a team member of the security department. He served as a first responder to emergency calls and watched the security cameras for any unusual activity.

Ruth Anderson, the donor responsible for Nick’s scholarship awards, understands the importance of education and chasing a dream. Born in Minot, North Dakota in a small town of 281 people, she worked diligently to become a successful businesswoman, crediting her adoptive parents, education and hard work. She shares, “This endowed scholarship is the most meaningful gift I have ever made. I hope it will continue to impact scholars well into the future.”

And impacting scholars it has! Nick is now a certified automotive mechanic. He works full time as a master field mechanic for John Deere. Proud dad Rock says, “He works on heavy equipment all over Florida, including those being used to help rebuild after Hurricane Ian.”