(From left) Dr. Heidi Popham, president of GNTC; Bart Jenkins, program director and instructor of Precision Machining and Manufacturing at GNTC; Mayahuel Yaoapoqa, scholarship recipient; and Jon Minyard, Haas sales engineer, pose for a photo in the Precision Machining and Manufacturing lab at GNTC’s Floyd County Campus in Rome.

Two Chattooga County residents—one from Trion and the other from Summerville—are being recognized for academic excellence and career potential in advanced manufacturing.

Mayahuel Yaoapoqa of Trion and John Burnette of Summerville were named among five Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC) students to receive the spring 2026 Gene Haas Scholarship, which provides financial support for students pursuing a degree, diploma, or certificate in GNTC’s Precision Machining and Manufacturing program.

Also receiving the scholarship were Joshua Ruiz Campos (Dalton), Zachary Culp (Adairsville), and Gibson Scott (Fairmount). The scholarship supports students in Precision Machining and Manufacturing and related fields on GNTC’s Floyd County Campus in Rome and Whitfield Murray Campus in Dalton.

“Georgia Northwestern Technical College deeply appreciates the Gene Haas Foundation for its outstanding support of our students,” said Dr. Heidi Popham, president of GNTC. “These funds will enable students in our Precision Machining and Manufacturing program to stay the course toward graduation and achieve their career goals. We are grateful for this ongoing partnership.”

The scholarships were presented to students by Jon Minyard, Haas sales engineer. Minyard said the Gene Haas Foundation’s impact is reflected in expanded student opportunities and program excellence—helping aspiring machinists gain access to industry-standard CNC technology, hands-on training, and scholarship support that reduces financial barriers and accelerates career pathways.

GNTC awards Gene Haas Scholarships throughout the year, and college leaders say the partnership strengthens an already strong machining program, deepens industry connections, and ensures curriculum stays aligned with the evolving demands of modern manufacturing.

Gene Haas—founder and owner of Haas Automation—personally funds the foundation to support manufacturing education, emphasizing that manufacturing remains a key pillar of a strong economy. The Gene Haas Foundation donates millions annually to educational programs and community organizations, awarding grants exclusively to tax-exempt entities through an online application process. In 2024, the foundation distributed more than $32 million in grants, bringing total contributions since 1999 to more than $225 million.