Six University of Hawaiʻi community college students have been awarded the 2026 Servco Technical Education Program (STEP) scholarship that provides tuition and hands-on career development for the next generation of automotive technicians.
The scholarships from Servco Pacific Inc. support students pursuing their automotive technology degrees at four UH campuses: Leeward Community College, Honolulu Community College, Kauaʻi Community College and the University of Hawaiʻi Maui College.
The 2026 recipients are:
- Josiah Tania, Leeward CC
- Justin Ryan Abad, Leeward CC
- Bronson Okamura, Honolulu CC
- Cyrus Medverd, Honolulu CC
- Joshua Galiza, Kauaʻi CC
- Robbiel Lyndon Fronda, UH Maui College
Pipeline of skilled technicians
“STEP is one of the most direct ways we invest in the future of our workforce,” said Lance Ichimura, senior vice president of automotive distribution at Servco. “As our industry evolves, developing local talent ensures Servco and Hawaiʻi have a strong pipeline of skilled technicians for years to come.”
The program, which has partnered with local community colleges since 1991, covers tuition and books for recipients. Students also gain part-time paid employment at Servco as technician apprentices and receive mentorship from the company’s technical training team. Upon completing their associate degrees and securing a technician position at Servco, recipients are also eligible for funding for tools.
