Ervin Smith, a student in Bevill State Community College’s HVACR program in Sumiton, recently received the Building Futures Scholarship.
The Alabama Community College System and the Alabama Association of Resource Conservation, & Development Councils (RC&D) awarded Building Futures Scholarships for the first time this year. Approximately 50 students enrolled in the Alabama Community College System received a $2,000 scholarship to cover tuition, books, and fees. Traditional, non-traditional, and veteran students pursuing degrees in aviation mechanics, avionics, construction management, welding and pipefitting, HVACR, carpentry, electrical, or plumbing were eligible for the scholarship.
Smith’s scholarship was presented through the Cawaco Resource Conservation & Development Council to support his studies in Bevill State’s HVACR (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration) program.
Smith is a retired U.S. Army Sergeant First Class and said he has more than two decades of experience leading maintenance operations, managing motor pool logistics, and training soldiers in advanced mechanical repair. He later earned an associate degree in Business Administration and Management and worked as a senior technician and security officer.
“Today, I am pursuing HVACR certification to build a second career grounded in precision, safety, and real-world problem-solving,” he said. “I enjoy mastering the technical side of HVAC systems — from diagnostics to worksheet interpretation — and I’m committed to becoming a reliable, knowledgeable technician who can serve my community with professionalism and integrity.”
He added, “My background in leadership, discipline, and troubleshooting continues to shape my approach to learning and to the HVACR field.”
Outside of his studies, he co-operates Smith Cleaning Service. He lives with his wife and their grandson.
“Receiving this scholarship means more than financial support — it’s a vote of confidence in my future as an HVACR technician,” Smith said. “After a long career in the U.S. Army, I’m committed to mastering this trade and serving my community with the same discipline and integrity I learned in uniform. This award helps me keep moving forward.”
State Senator Matt Woods congratulated Smith on receiving the scholarship.
“I’m proud to congratulate Ervin Smith on receiving the Building Futures Scholarship,” Woods said. “ I’ve been pleased to support this effort through the state budgeting process, because investing in workforce training is an investment in both our students and the future of Alabama. Opportunities like this help young people prepare for meaningful careers while strengthening the communities and industries that depend on a skilled workforce.”
Learn more about the Bevill State HVACR program by visiting https://www.bscc.edu/programs/career-tech/air-conditioning-and-refrigeration WL
