Why They Love Being a Student

Honestly? He just loves to learn. He always has. He wants more knowledge, once he knows something he has to get to the next level. More complex mathematical concepts, a better understanding of the inner workings of machines, whatever it is, he’s not satisfied with status quo. Being a student gives him a daily opportunity to observe, develop and deepen his understanding of how things work.

Favorite Subject & Why

It’s tough to say, as it changes depending on the day. Sometimes it maths, which he’s always excelled at it. And he enjoys the complexity and problem solving that go along with it. Science is close as this is where his passion for steam power lies, understanding combustion, friction and driving force is at the base of his greatest love, trains. The why? It always comes back to steam engines, whatever he can learn about how steam works, he’s interested.

How $20,000 Would Support Their Goals

Oliver’s ultimate goal is to become a steam engineer. At 12 he is already actively pursuing this — working toward his steam ticket through ABSA and the Heritage Boilers Association, and has been taken on as a junior apprentice by a network of experienced steam engineers who recognized his passion and aptitude. A portion of this award would support his association memberships and certifications, while the remainder would go toward his post-secondary education in power engineering.