Local students pick up GPDA scholarships

NORFOLK — Three Hartington students — James Christensen, Alex Christensen and Cazden Christensen — have been selected through the 2023 Goulds Professional Dealers Association (GPDA) scholarship to receive $1,500 each to fund higher education or technical school.

The GPDA scholarship is awarded to 16 students across the U.S., totaling $24,000. Recipients were chosen based on academic standing, volunteerism and leadership skills.

The Christensens’ family-run business, Christensen Well & Irrigation, specializes in water well drilling services. The company is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

James and Cazden are at Northeast Community College, studying electrical construction and control, while Alex is attending University of Nebraska-Lincoln for mechanical engineering.

GPDA scholarship recipients are family members of GPDA members, highlighting the company’s support and commitment to independent dealers and young talent. Since its inception, the annual GPDA scholarship program has awarded more than $420,000 to 352 recipients.

“At Goulds Water Technology, we understand the importance of education and the positive impact it has on the future of our industry,” said Jen Manswell, demand generation manager of residential & agriculture at Xylem. “Each year, we take great pride in presenting these scholarships, helping to propel students toward their education goals, enrich their futures and reinforce the foundation of our industry.”

A fourth Nebraska recipient was Trevyn Keene of Grand Island, working at Wells Plumbing Co.

GPDA is the industry’s oldest and largest dealers’ association, founded more than 50 years ago. GPDA provides independent dealers with extensive technical and product training, sales leads and marketing support. More than 20,000 dealers and distributors have graduated from its education center, going on to further their product knowledge, grow their businesses and help tackle water scarcity in their local communities.