Modern Industry eXpertise (MiX), a MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers council empowering the next generation of aftermarket leaders, and the Young Auto Care Network Group (YANG), a community of the Auto Care Association for young industry professionals under the age of 40, in partnership with the University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF), are proud to announce the recipient of the Fueling the Future student scholarship is Xen Reddell. The Fueling the Future scholarship awards $2,500 to a student pursuing a career within the automotive aftermarket industry. 

Reddell is an automotive student at Canyon High School in New Braunfels, Texas, whose passion, determination, and leadership exemplify the future of the aftermarket industry. Reddell has already gained hands-on experience working on everything from classic cars to heavy equipment while maintaining her clear vision for her future as a technician and mentor. 

She competed in the Universal Technical Institute Top Tech Challenge twice, earning first place the second time. Reddell also trained six fellow students who also placed in the competition. 

"I consider myself blessed to have a career path I am passionate about with a clear path to success," said Reddell. "As a graduating senior, I aim to build a reputable name for myself as a technician, creating a career that will allow me to grow and succeed wherever I find myself in life." 

"Reddell's story embodies the determination, resilience, and confidence that MiX strives to celebrate," said Elisse Richardson, district sales manager at DriV and MiX chair. "As a young woman pursuing a career in vehicle service, she is not only breaking barriers but also inspiring others to see the opportunities that exist within our industry." 

"Reddell has already demonstrated the qualities of a future industry leader through her commitment to learning, mentoring her peers, and giving back to the vehicle community," said Tanya Hunt, commercial project manager at TERREPOWER and YANG chair. "Her passion for the trades and dedication to helping others succeed make her an outstanding representative of the next generation of aftermarket professionals." 

Funds for the scholarship were raised during the National Coffee Day social campaign last September. Industry supporters were challenged to skip one cup of coffee and to instead donate the cost to the UAF Coffee Club donor program while encouraging others to do the same. The goal of 50 new Coffee Club recurring donors was achieved to award a dedicated named scholarship. 

The Fueling the Future scholarship program is part of a centralized location for scholarships available to students looking to have a career in the automotive aftermarket and commercial vehicle industry. Over $900,000 in scholarships will be awarded for the 2026-27 academic year to students enrolled in four-year and two-year colleges as well as ASE/NATEF-certified automotive, collision, and heavy-duty/diesel post-secondary programs. Students are considered for hundreds of scholarship opportunities from over 40 different organizations by filling out just one application.