Southwest Applied Technology College student Joseph Dec was awarded a $5,000 NASA scholarship grant in computer programming.

The Utah NASA Space Grant Consortium received a NASA grant for a scholarship to be awarded to a student attending Southwest ATC.

Eligible applicants must pursue a certificate in a Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics field, according to a news release.

Southwest ATC opened applications to students in programs related to, or supportive of the space industry such as health science, welding, industrial maintenance, information technology, business technology, automotive technology and other STEM related programs.

“Joey is a very strong academic student. He has advanced through his studies faster than any student this year and has acquired the industry standard certifications to back it up,” said Program Coordinator Coston Perkins. “Dec will be a poster child of the Program’s soon-to-be success.”

The student shared his excitement when discussing the grant received. “This grant gives me the ability to continue my education and to become more than I would have been able to become otherwise,” Dec said.  He said he chose Southwest ATC because the campus offered a focused approach to computer programming.  “I have a strong passion for technology,” Dec said. “With programming there are unlimited possibilities.”

Dec is on track to complete his program this school year and the campus will be prepared to celebrate his graduation and his steps to employment.

http://www.thespectrum.com/story/news/local/cedar-city/2015/08/28/southwest-atc-student-earns-scholarship-grant-nasa/71346972/