Long Island veteran gets $5K scholarship from auto dealers group
New Hyde Park resident David Leary, a veteran and current student at Lincoln Tech’s Queens campus, has been awarded a $5,000 scholarship from the Greater New York Automobile Dealers Association (GNYADA).
Leary was awarded the Excellence in Automotive Education Scholarship, GNYADA’s top scholarship, which honors students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance, dedication, and promise in the field of automotive technology.
Before enrolling at Lincoln Tech, Leary served in the U.S. Army as a Patriot Launching System Operator/Track Maintainer at Fort Hood in Texas. From 2019 through 2024, he ensured the readiness of mission-critical vehicles and oversaw daily operations while deployed in Qatar, and was recognized with multiple commendations, including the Army Achievement Medal and two Army Commendation Medals, according to a GNYADA statement.
“I’ve always had a passion for working with cars, ever since helping my dad with his classic muscle cars in the driveway,” Leary said. “For me, automotive technology isn’t just a job—it’s a career and a hobby I love. This scholarship helps me pursue advanced training and the tools I need to succeed, while also supporting my young family as I build my future in the industry.”
Leary hopes to secure an internship with a manufacturer like Mercedes-Benz or BMW, learning directly from advanced technical teams, and eventually grow into a leadership role in the automotive field.
“David is a serious, motivated, and competent young man who enjoys a challenge and rises to meet it every time,” said William D. Scully, automotive instructor at Lincoln Tech. “He has the unique ability to make those around him better, which will make him a valuable asset to any shop.”
Mark Schienberg, president of GNYADA said: “Scholarships like these are not only financial assistance, they are a recognition of students like David who have the skills, drive, and passion to succeed in today’s fast-evolving automotive sector. The industry is stronger with leaders like him on the way up.”
