Meggan Thompson, a graduate of WyoTech - Blairsville, has been selected as the winner of the school’s 2009 Dream Award. The award recognizes a graduate who has completed a post-secondary education while overcoming extraordinary challenges.

Raised in an abusive home, Thompson was forced to work at the young age of 9 years old. Maintaining several jobs, she supported herself and her family for many years. However, it was her most recent challenge that nearly took her life. A life-threatening infection, which led to major surgery, forced Thompson to sell her home and her belongings to pay her medical bills.

After she recovered, Thompson decided that it was time to pursue her dream of becoming a diesel technician. She enrolled in WyoTech’s motorsports chassis fabrication program knowing that an education would help her reach her goals. After graduating from the program, Thompson realized her dream and is currently working as a heavy duty diesel mechanic in Norfolk, Virginia.

“Regardless of her health problems, Meggan attended class, mentored her fellow students and volunteered at every opportunity,” said Art Herman, president of WyoTech’s Blairsville campus. “Meggan is a strong, mature and professional woman who presented herself as a leader,” Herman said. “We are so proud of her as an individual and as a model WyoTech student.”

As a Dream Award winner, Thompson will receive a $2,500 WyoTech scholarship to further pursue her education.

WyoTech – Blairsville is located at 500 Innovation Drive in Blairsville, Pennsylvania. WyoTech is a division of Corinthian Colleges, Inc., one of the largest post-secondary education companies in North America. With six campuses located throughout the United States, WyoTech offers degree and diploma programs in the fields of automotive, diesel, collision refinishing, motorcycle, marine technology, as well as construction trades. In addition, WyoTech offers advanced training programs in applied service management; advanced diesel; light duty diesel; advanced automotive diagnostics; street rod and custom fabrication; motorsports chassis fabrication; high performance power trains; and trim and upholstery technology.