Transferring to a new college can feel like stepping into a whirlwind, but for Rutger Shultz, a mining engineering sophomore from Boulder, Montana, it turned into a golden opportunity. With a hands-on summer internship already secured and two significant scholarships in his pocket before even setting foot in Montana Technological University, Shultz is a shining example of how ambition and initiative can pay off in spades.
Shultz’s journey began with the Lance Scholars Program, a scholarship initiative that aims to support in-state students pursuing higher education. “It was convenient to apply for the Lance Scholars Program,” Shultz shared. “All the information was right there on the website. It was super simple. I think I did it all in a day. It wasn’t a long essay. It was short and sweet.” This program, established through a generous $31 million donation from Ryan and Lisa Lance, offers 50 students a renewable $4,000 per year scholarship, allowing them to focus on their studies without the constant worry of finances.
For Shultz, who initially thought he’d have to juggle work and classes, the scholarship was a game changer. “I am very fortunate to not have to worry about working,” he said. In addition to the Lance scholarship, he also secured the Rio Tinto Scholarship, which was launched in 2024 to support future mining professionals. This scholarship, valued at $9,500, further eases the financial burden of his education.
Shultz’s academic journey took a significant turn when he landed an internship with Barnard Construction Company in Bozeman. This opportunity came about through a connection made during his visit to Montana Tech for the Intercollegiate/International Mining Competition. Assigned to a tunneling team on a reservoir project in Colorado, he found his passion for underground work. “I just fell in love with working underground,” Shultz exclaimed. His internship experience was comprehensive; he engaged with laborers, learned the ropes of project paperwork, and attended crucial engineering meetings. It was a hands-on education that solidified his commitment to mining engineering.
Looking ahead, Shultz is already planning to intern with Barnard again in Summer 2025. His enthusiasm for the field is palpable, and he has set his sights on mining engineering roles that offer travel opportunities post-graduation. A recent reception with Ryan and Lisa Lance served as a motivational moment for Shultz. “It was cool to see where life can take you,” he reflected. “If you are ambitious enough you can really go wherever you want with it.”
Shultz’s story is not just about individual success; it’s a clarion call for students who might hesitate to apply for scholarships like the Lance Scholars Program. “I’m an A and B student,” he noted. “I’m not a perfect student by any means. I think you should apply if you qualify.” The Lance Scholars Program is open to Montana high school seniors or transfer students who meet specific criteria, including maintaining a 3.0 GPA and completing the dedicated scholarship application. The deadline to apply is February 15, and students are encouraged to explore this opportunity, as it could significantly impact their education and future careers.
In an era where financial concerns can overshadow academic aspirations, programs like the Lance Scholars and scholarships like those from Rio Tinto serve as vital lifelines for students like Shultz. They not only alleviate financial stress but also empower the next generation of mining professionals to pursue their dreams with vigor and confidence.
