The Gilchrist Foundation awarded its 2024 scholarships to Alexis Phillips, Eurolink Fastener Service; and Victoria Weaver and Lindsey Weaver, both of Ken Forging Inc.
Robbie and Gina Gilchrist established the Gilchrist Foundation Fastener Scholarship in 2000 to return something to the industry.
Robbie Gilchrist started in the fastener industry upon graduating from high school in 1972. He intended to go to college, but the “summer job” lasted 13 years until he started Capital Fasteners Inc. in North Carolina in 1985.
Robbie met his wife, Gina, while she was working in the fastener business. She then worked outside the fastener business to provide a household income while Robbie built the distributorship.
Gilchrist grew Capital Fasteners and opened branches in Virginia and Florida before selling the business to Questron Technology, Inc. in 1999.
The scholarships are for those who are already in the fastener industry to continue their education. Children of fastener employees who intend to go into the fastener business can also benefit from the foundation. The Foundation has awarded 81 scholarships.
The Gilchrist Foundation invites applicants who are full time or part time students working in the industry or children of working fastener people. Web: GilchristFoundation.com
