John Mabry Forestry Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Railway Tie Association
Introduction
The Railway Tie Association (RTA), through a generous gift from an anonymous RTA supporter, is offering two $5,000 undergraduate scholarships for the 2026–2027 academic year in honor of John Mabry and Paul Webster — two individuals who helped shape the Association.
Purpose
RTA, a railroad supply organization committed to improving railroad-related products, supports these awards as part of its effort to develop the next generation of industry professionals. Addressing future challenges in the railroad sector will require not only superior products but also the technical skill, initiative, and vision of emerging leaders. These scholarships are intended to help qualified students pursue forestry and wood science education that will benefit the railroad industry.
Scholarship Awards
- Two scholarships, each valued at $5,000, will be awarded for the 2026–2027 academic year.
- Scholarship payments are split into two disbursements: $2,500 at fall registration and $2,500 at spring registration. For institutions on quarter or trimester schedules, the payment timing will be adjusted accordingly.
Eligibility
- Four-year colleges/universities: One or both awards may be granted to juniors or seniors enrolled in accredited Forestry or Wood Science programs, provided the student will not graduate before the end of the 2026–2027 school year.
- Two-year colleges: One of the awards is available to students in their second year of a two-year accredited Forestry or Wood Science program, provided they will not graduate before the end of the 2026–2027 school year.
Evaluation Criteria
Applications will be assessed by the RTA Education Committee with emphasis on:
- Scholastic achievement: 60%
- Leadership qualities: 30%
- Career objectives: 25%
- Financial need: 10%
In addition, the Committee may add or subtract points based on the written narrative’s quality — including clarity in describing career goals, leadership experience, academic record, demonstration of financial need, and understanding of the wood crosstie industry.
Application and Deadlines
- Application deadline: February 20, 2026.
- The Education Committee will review completed submissions from eligible applicants. Selection is made at the discretion of RTA, which reserves the right to accept or reject any or all applications. RTA’s decision is final.
Notification
RTA will notify the two scholarship recipients by phone or email no later than August 7, 2026.
Questions
If you need more information, please consult RTA’s scholarship announcements or contact us by phone or email.