Five University of Montana-Helena College of Technology students received a $1,000 scholarship each from the Helena Valley Timing Association to use toward their education.

Nathan Songsteng, William Uthman, Chris Fisher, Keith Olson and Kevin Baum were presented with certificates signifying the award at a small ceremony at the UM-Helena campus on Tuesday.

The scholarships were awarded for the students' outstanding performance in a trades program to cover the costs of tuition, books and tools needed for their trade focus.

UM-Helena Dean Daniel Bingham said he is pleased to see the money go directly to students in various programs.

"Every penny will be well spent," he said during the presentation.

Uthman, 26, of Helena, is working on a certificate in machine tool technology. He is an apprentice at Summit Aeronautics, where he plans to work after completing his certificate in May.

Fisher, 18, is working on an associate's degree in aviation maintenance. He hopes to stay in Helena after he has completed school. Fisher said he was surprised and pleased to be awarded the scholarship.

Baum, 22, a Broadwater High School graduate, is working on an associate's degree in applied sciences with a focus in metal technology.

Many times, Bingham said, students must invest thousands of dollars just to be in the programs.

Helena Valley Timing Association is a group of about 32 car enthusiasts who organized a car show and a drag race last summer.

Marvin Dye, spokesperson for the association, said the entry fees for both events generated the funds for the scholarships.

"There is no better way than to put it into scholarships," Dye said. "Next year, we hope it's much, much more."

This year's car show is set for June 30 and the drag races will be on July 1.