Young adults are sometimes unsure what pathway to choose … just ask Aaliyah Hickey who struggled through some tough teenage years and experiences before gaining a laser focus goal for her life. She has overcome the naysayers who said she couldn’t achieve her goals while earning the respect of her peers, instructors, and industry members alike.

Aaliyah will graduate in December from Chattanooga State’s Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) with a diploma in Motorcycle and Marine Technology and several accolades as well. During the recent statewide SkillsUSA competition, Aaliyah placed second earning a silver medal in the Marine Technology competition and has just been recognized as a finalist for the 2021 FutureTechs Rock awards, receiving prizes valued at more than $1,200 from national automotive industry companies. The grand prize winner will be chosen May 7 and awarded additional prizes valued at more than $1,500 and a $1,000 TechForce Scholarship.

Aaliyah walked into a career that is traditionally a man’s world but didn’t let that stop her from forging ahead. “I want my own shop,” stated Aaliyah, “I’m hungry to learn, and be the best I can be, so I will make every mistake a learning experience. The only option I have is to grow because I refuse to work backwards.”

The TechForce Foundation created the award for the student community to recognize students who have a promising future and will shape the transportation industry. Aaliyah is one of 10 national finalists.

For more information on Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) programs, call (423) 697-4433 or visit chattanoogastate.edu/tcat.