One such company is Hilti, Inc.

In 1991, an aspiring young student named Eric Romero received the Simon Estes Scholarship. Eric’s academic record at Memorial High School was most impressive with a 3.8 GPA distinguishing himself by graduating in the top 5% of his class and maintaining Honor Roll status throughout his secondary school experience.

Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina and coming to the United States at age five years-old with his mother and several siblings, Eric learned very quickly, “ the importance of adjusting and valuing the American way of life.”  Limited financial resources and learning English as a second language presented definite challenges to Eric but these circumstances did not interfere with his strong desire to excel and succeed.

As described by his high school principal, “…a top-notch student with the ability to read critically and write analytically.  His well-disciplined approach to academics and social pursuits has earned him the reputation of a mature, intelligent young man with clearly defined goals and the willingness to put forth the effort to obtain them.”

In April 1985, Eric became a U.S. citizen believing that “communication is the base of human understanding.”  Pulling on the aforementioned strengths, Eric pursued an undergraduate degree at the University of Southern California with diligence and determination.

Eric majored in International Business with a minor in Spanish, which was a perfect “match” for his Adopt-A-Scholar sponsor, Hilti Inc. This international company took their commitment to Eric very seriously by not only fulfilling the scholarship pledge to the Foundation; but, giving summer internship opportunities and close mentorship including accountability and goal-setting.

A strong relationship between the “boy” and the “boss” flourished built on reciprocal respect and appreciation.  Executives at Hilti filled in for the absentee father in Eric’s life providing structure, guidance and “strokes” when applicable.  Without Hilti’s intervention coupled with their genuine care and concern for the future of this young man, he would have no doubt lost his way.

After graduation from the University of Southern California, Hilti again blessed Eric with an employment opportunity, which has since gained him several promotions within the corporation.  He is highly respected by his colleagues and has come full circle since 1991 in capturing and “valuing the American way of life.”

Andre Siegenthaler, Hilti, Inc. is readily available  for comments at (918) 252-6000

Jayne Reed, Cofounder of The Simon Estes Educational Foundation, Inc. can be reached either at the Foundation office, (918) 583-0500,  by or email, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Bill Lawson, President of The Simon Estes Educational Foundation, Inc. and Director of Energy Services at Williams Power Solutions can be contacted at (918) 573-3610 or email, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Eric Romero works in Santa Barbara California and can be contacted through Mr. Siegenthaler’s office at Hilti. Inc.