In memory of our outstanding colleagues, Scotty Buckingham and Phil Ayres, and to honor their many contributions to our company and our industry, we have established the Buckingham/Ayres Annual Scholarship.

They were both employed by Nicholson as drill rig/crane operators. But their impacts on Nicholson went much further than their role. They both were extremely safety conscious, dedicated, respectful, professional and endearing. They also loved their family, were great friends to many and loved the outdoors.

Nicholson is committed, through this Scholarship Program, to providing and supporting quality educational/apprenticeship programs designed to encourage people to start their career in the construction industry. Because of that commitment, Nicholson is granting scholarships to assist high school graduates going on to trade schools, union apprentices, or college. The $10,000 annual allotment of scholarships is intended to provide the children, grandchildren, step-children, siblings and those under guardianship of Nicholson employees financial assistance in order to provide the construction industry with Operators, Mechanics, Piledrivers/Dock-builders, Foremen,Project Managers, Project Engineers, Estimators and Superintendents.

The Buckingham/Ayres Scholarship will ensure that both Scotty and Phil’s legacy and love of our industry carries on for future generations.

If you are interested in applying, review the rules; complete the application; write the required essay; and return to the Scholarship Committee by May 12, 2024. We very much appreciate your interest in the program and interest in pursuing a career in construction.