Humboldt Builders’ Exchange Announces 2026 Scholarship Winners

This is a press release from the Humboldt Builders Exchange:

Left to right – AvaJane Harlow, Travis Way, Tisten Titus

The Humboldt Builders Exchange is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 scholarship awards, recognizing outstanding local students pursuing careers in the construction trades and related industries.

This year’s scholarship recipients are:

• AvaJane Harlow of Fortuna High School, who plans to attend Butte College’s welding program and pursue a career as a welder.
• Tristan Titus of Ferndale High School, who will attend Butte College’s heavy equipment program with plans to return to Humboldt County and work in the heavy equipment and trucking industries.
• Travis Way of South Fork High School, who plans to attend Sacramento State for Construction Management and hopes to return home to Southern Humboldt to work alongside his brother in the construction industry.
• Blake Santos of McKinleyville High School, who plans to attend Butte College to study project management and continue a family tradition in construction.

“The $4,000 scholarship is hopefully enough to be of real service,” said Executive Director Jada Brotman. The board had a very tough decision this year with 24 amazing applicants. Last year they awarded three, but this year there were too many great choices, so they had to up it to four!  We really are honored to help these young people on the path to a successful career in the trades. Our mission is Building the trades of tomorrow, and these kids are excellent examples.”

You can learn more about the Humboldt Builders’ Exchange at www.humbx.com.