Adrian, MI – For Ian Baker, working on engines isn’t just a hobby, it’s part of who he is.
“I’ve been a gearhead since I was born,” Ian said. “But my family isn’t, so the TECH Center has been great.”
That passion is already translating into remarkable success for the Adrian Public Schools junior and first-year student in the Automotive Service Technology program at the LISD TECH Center.
This week, Ian was officially recognized with a $5,000 scholarship from the University of Northwestern Ohio (UNOH), presented by representative Jim McNellis. The award came after Ian earned first place on a national scholarship test during a recent UNOH open house, outperforming more than 200 students from 30 states.
What makes the achievement even more impressive is Ian’s reaction.
“He has a poker face,” McNellis said, noting Ian’s humility. “He was genuinely surprised that he performed the best out of everyone.”
Ian’s success doesn’t stop there.
He has already passed all eight Michigan Mechanics Certification tests, earning the distinction of becoming a State of Michigan Master Mechanic, an accomplishment many don’t achieve until much later in their careers.
Automotive Service Technology Instructor Mark LaFollette has watched Ian’s journey closely, dating back to when he first connected with the program through a summer camp experience.
“He came to us through camp, got a taste of the program, and chose us for his high school experience,” LaFollette said. “Since then, he’s taken off.”
LaFollette also points to Ian’s work ethic beyond the classroom as a key part of his success.
“At Adrian, he’s in the pool at 6 a.m. training for the swim team, competing in the IM and butterfly,” he said. “He’s also involved in marching band and puts in time to practice his music. That kind of discipline shows up in everything he does.”
Looking ahead, Ian has big goals.
He plans to pursue a career in diesel mechanics and hopes to one day open his own business. His vision includes a towing company paired with a full semi restoration shop, an ambitious idea he describes as “shooting for the stars.”
That dream aligns with opportunities available through UNOH. McNellis shared that the university offers programs that combine technical training with business education, helping prepare students like Ian to not only master their craft but also successfully run a company.
Ian’s recent scholarship is just the beginning. He will have another opportunity to compete at the UNOH Fall 2026 open house for additional scholarship money, along with access to more scholarship opportunities tied to industry certifications he has already earned.
While he may only be in his first year at the LISD TECH Center, Ian Baker is already proving himself to be an exceptional talent. His combination of skill, humility, and determination continues to set him apart, and his future in the automotive and diesel industry is just getting started.