June 30, 2025 – Americus, Georgia – The Powder Coating Institute (PCI) has awarded a $5,000 scholarship to local Ellaville resident Wyatt Ellingson, a junior Mechanical Engineering student at the University of Georgia. The scholarship, made possible by a donation from TCI Powder Coatings, supports students pursuing careers in the powder coating industry and helps foster the next generation of technical talent.
For Wyatt, the powder coating industry is more than just a career path, it’s part of his family legacy. Growing up with both parents working in the industry, now employed at TCI, he gained early exposure to both the technical and practical sides of the business.
“It occurred to me that I was in a unique position to bring my perspective into the powder coating industry,” Ellingson said. “This scholarship helps me and my family a tremendous amount. It goes a long way toward covering non-tuition fees and textbooks, and it relieves a great deal of financial stress.”
Currently interning in TCI’s engineering department, Ellingson is gaining hands-on experience supporting training development, part tracking, and day-to-day plant operations. The role has deepened his interest in mechanical systems and confirmed his desire to work in the powder coating field.
Wyatt first discovered his passion for engineering through Ag Mechanics courses in high school and has since excelled in thermodynamics and machine design at UGA.
“I love learning how things work,” he shared. “Mechanical Engineering just felt like the right fit for me.”
He also cited UGA’s College of Engineering and the unique atmosphere of Athens as key reasons for choosing the school.
“As a lifelong music fan and musician, Athens is an amazing town and unlike any other place in the country. I can’t imagine a better city or better university to receive my education. Go Dawgs!”
TCI is proud to support students like Wyatt who represent the future of innovation in the powder coating industry.
“We’re committed to supporting the powder coating industry and the next generation of leaders,” said Tom Whalen, VP of Marketing and Sales.
PCI’s scholarship program continues to create meaningful opportunities for students in technical fields. As a proud PCI member and scholarship sponsor, TCI is committed to continuing its support—locally and nationally—to help students pursue careers in powder coating.
To learn more about PCI scholarships or how to get involved, visit https://www.powdercoating.org.
