Luxury Products Group (LPG) demonstrates its commitment to the industry's future in a very tangible way — by establishing a scholarship fund for students pursuing higher education at colleges, universities, or vocational schools.

In 2019 LPG awarded the first scholarship of many. There has been a dramatic decline in the number of tradespeople in the U.S., particularly plumbers. More than half of America's trade professionals are at or nearing retirement age. The majority of high schools began discontinuing their 'shop' classes a decade ago, and teenagers are not being exposed to the opportunities available for a skilled trade workforce.

Meet 2021 Luxury Products Group Scholarship Recipient Sofia Sargeant

Sofia Sargeant works on the e-commerce team at Cayce Mill Supply in Hopkinsville, Kentucky, along with her mother, Laura. She is currently working on a new web store for Cayce Mill Supply. Sargeant is a freshman attending Murray State University, an Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority member, and is studying business. She has an extensive resume, including volunteering efforts and a solid academic record.

Cayce Mill Supply is a proud member of Luxury Products Group and IMARK Plumbing and surpassing 100 years in business. Bart Cayce, president of Cayce Mill Supply, shared his recommendation. "Sofia's work ethic, leadership traits, and community service combine to make her an outstanding future representative of our industry," he said.

LPG Executive Director Jeff MacDowell added, "I am thrilled to be able to have Sofia win this scholarship — she has the right attitude and passion for learning. While we had several people apply for the scholarship, we were particularly impressed with Sofia and her accomplishments. David Hawkins has done an excellent job of setting up this scholarship for LPG, and we expect to continue growing the award year over year. There is nothing more rewarding than helping those who are trying to make the most of their educational experience, and LPG is committed to the families within the group, whether it be a supplier or member."

The Scholarship

The LPG-Hawkins Endowment Fund Scholarship is designed to assist students pursuing higher education at colleges, universities, or vocational schools and in the immediate household family of members, vendors, and employees. Students must show a proven interest in the decorative bath and kitchen industry and intend to remain in the industry following their post-secondary education. Hawkins, whose background is in construction, has built a successful showroom design management firm that is an LPG service provider. He is a firm believer in building a solid foundation for the decorative supply channel's future. Hawkins also has published a book called Ask the Mailman, which includes a section with solid conservative knowledge about stocks and investments. He will assist in managing the endowment fund.

To learn more about the fund and how to be part of it, contact Jeff MacDowell at jeff@luxuryproductsgroup.com.