Congratulations to Jill Kennicott on receiving a Ferguson Women in the Mechanical Industry (WiMI) Scholarship at MCAA26 this past March.

Ferguson annually sponsors two $5,000 scholarships for worthy female students who are invested in a career in the mechanical contracting industry. Additionally, the two scholarship recipients are invited to attend the WiMI Conference with complimentary registration. The conference is occurring this week (June 8-10) in Coronado Bay, California.

Jill anticipates graduating from Bradley University in May 2027 with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. She has been a member of the student chapter at Bradley since 2024 and previously served as the Competition Chair and Vice President. This summer, she is interning with MCAA Member, Helm Group and upon returning to campus this fall will serve as student chapter president.

“I originally started college with the goal of designing construction equipment as my career, and through my involvement in MCAA my goal has shifted to being a part of the mechanical industry.

"As a student chapter member, having the experience of the Student Chapter Competition has given me an opportunity to learn about the mechanical industry in a hands-on situation. The competition taught me not only contracting skills, but also how to work as a team, how to break down a project, and ultimately gave me a taste of what project management looks like. I’ve been able to learn about systems that I wouldn’t have in my classes, and how they fit into a construction project.

"Being able to be involved in MCAA on the national level by attending conferences has given me the opportunity to network with professionals and learn more about the mechanical industry from them. As a mechanical engineering major, asking professionals that came from an engineering background how they chose the contracting side of the industry helps me learn what steps I can take in my future. Every MCAA member I’ve talked to has taken the time to not only answer my questions, but to get to know me and my goals and help me find a way to achieve them.

"After graduation, I plan to stay involved in MCAA by helping my chapter in the Student Chapter Competition. I know as students we never ask enough questions, and I want to be the industry advisor that makes sure my chapter asks every question they have to help guide them. I want to not only provide support, but explain how systems work and help guide students on their professional journeys. I plan to show future members of my MCAA chapter a taste of the industry by inviting them to my future company for a site tour or coming back to campus to speak about the industry.”

View additional information on JRGF Scholarships, or make a donation to the foundation for a research project, initiative, scholarship or cause here.