Two local college students are getting some well-earned help as they train for careers in the automotive industry.

El Camino College students Brandon French and Chayse Johnson have each been selected to receive a $1,000 scholarship funded by CSN Collision through the Collision Repair Education Foundation's 2026 scholarship program.

The scholarships are part of a broader national effort to support students preparing for careers in collision repair and automotive technology.

The Collision Repair Education Foundation works with schools and industry partners to help students obtain the education, tools and training needed to enter the profession.

For students, even relatively modest scholarships can matter.

Automotive programs can involve expenses beyond tuition, including tools, safety equipment, certifications and other specialized materials required for hands-on training.

French and Johnson were among eight students nationally chosen for the CSN Collision-funded scholarships this year.

Their recognition also highlights something important about career education locally.

College success doesn't always mean pursuing a traditional four-year academic path. Skilled trades such as collision repair can provide specialized, technical careers in industries that continue to need trained workers.

And this week, two students studying right here at El Camino are getting some national recognition as they take that next step.

Article Link: See the 2026 CREF Scholarship Recipients