Career Development Opportunities For Women
Glo Tech Scholarship Fund
The Glo Tech Scholarship Fund at IYRS was established in February 2024 to honor the legacy of Gloria Aurora Borrego—a pioneering force in marine systems and advanced manufacturing. Established with $25,000 seed money - in an endowed restricted fund - from Gloria’s champions and friends, we believe it will be supported by associates and industry leaders in years to come. The fund reflects her extraordinary career and enduring impact across multiple industries, including high-performance marine systems, motorsports, and major expeditionary projects such as the Whitbread Round the World Race and Diana Nyad’s record-setting swim. Gloria broke barriers as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field, earning respect through her technical excellence, tenacity, and commitment to continuous learning. The Glo Tech Scholarship Fund extends her legacy by supporting women graduates of IYRS and industry professionals who seek to advance their careers in marine trades and advanced manufacturing—helping to shape the next generation of leaders in these critical and evolving industries.
Applications open: September 1, 2026
Deadline: November 15, 2026
Eligibility
To qualify, applicants must meet all the following criteria:
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Age 25 or older female
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Have at least four years of work experience in marine trades or advanced manufacturing technology.
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Use the scholarship to attend an accredited IYRS program or another marine trade and advanced manufacturing professional development opportunity.
Application Process
Eligible candidates must submit an application detailing:
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A clear description of the professional development opportunity for which funding is requested.
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An explanation of how this opportunity will benefit their career and future professional goals.
Take me to the application!
Recipient Requirements
Scholarship Recipients are required to provide a written or video testimonial detailing their professional development experience and its impact on their career.
Selection Committee
Decisions on scholarship awards will be made by a committee comprising the following IYRS representatives:
- IYRS President
- IYRS Director of Student Services
- IYRS Director of Philanthropy
- (2) Marine Trades or Advanced Manufacturing Industry Representatives (staggered two year terms)
Promotion and Candidate Outreach
The scholarship will be promoted through IYRS communication channels, the alumni network, and industry partnerships to ensure that eligible candidates are informed about this opportunity.
Governance
This guideline ensures the Glo Tech Scholarship Fund honors Gloria Aurora Borrego’s legacy while supporting women’s professional advancement in the marine trades and advanced manufacturing industries. Funds will be managed in accordance with the Uniform Prudent Management of Institutional Funds Act (UPMIFA), R.I. Gen. Laws § 18-12.1.
Would you like to support the Glo Tech scholarship?
Head to our Give page.
Please note "Restricted Scholarship - Glo Tech" in the "my donation is for" section.
Questions? Contact:
For more information, please contact Liz Isdale at Lisdale@iyrs.edu.
Thank you to our Glo Tech supporters!
Michael Bancroft
Tom Bandoni
Bennett Family Foundation
Bilden Family
Donald Booth
Nicholas Brown
Bilden Family
Chris Cannon
Sarah Cavanagh
Thomas Chapin
Keith Chmura
Susan Daly
Kristal Dockery
Mike Fiore
Annie Gardner
Charlie Haines
George Hill
Hope Foundation
Liz Isdale
Nancy Jamison
Edward W. Kane and Martha J. Wallace
Diana Klybert
Henry Kniskern
Kathleen Kronholm
Tina Lawson
Elaine Lembo
Linda Lindquist-Bishop
Gail Martin
MC Scholarship Foundation
Renee Mehl
The Navico Group
Waring and Carmen Partridge Foundation
Thomas Perrotti
Margaret Potter
Dawn Riley
Moe Roddy
Jeffrey Stone
Robert Sullivan
Lora & Victor Tarango
Jeff Udell
Carol Vernon
Lorena Vernon
Dirck Westervelt
Alyce Wright
In honor of a leader in the marine trades
“Gloria Borrego was one of the most talented Sr. Application Engineers and training specialists we have ever had.” Menno Ligterink, Navico Group, Sr Regional Sales Manager.
“From crossing oceans to building boats in far flung countries, Gloria was the finest team mate I ever had. Not only did she provide the best guidance, it always came with a smile.” Carol Vernon, Naval Architect and Captain.
"Gloria showed up with a toolbox and a laugh. She could defuse any male skepticism by telling them that she kept her lipstick in there, and then would quickly impress any and all with her raw engineering talent.” Dawn Riley, Oakcliff Sailing Exec. Dir, Triple Hall of Fame sailor.
In honor of a leader in the marine trades
“Gloria Borrego was one of the most talented Sr. Application Engineers and training specialists we have ever had.” Menno Ligterink, Navico Group, Sr Regional Sales Manager.
“From crossing oceans to building boats in far flung countries, Gloria was the finest team mate I ever had. Not only did she provide the best guidance, it always came with a smile.” Carol Vernon, Naval Architect and Captain.
"Gloria showed up with a toolbox and a laugh. She could defuse any male skepticism by telling them that she kept her lipstick in there, and then would quickly impress any and all with her raw engineering talent.” Dawn Riley, Oakcliff Sailing Exec. Dir, Triple Hall of Fame sailor.
See how IYRS can support your career goals
Develop Critical Networking Skills
at Career Day
This event connects you with top employers in marine trades and modern manufacturing, offering a unique opportunity to explore career paths, network with industry professionals, and discover job openings. Whether you're a current student, recent graduate, or community member, Career Day is your gateway to launching a rewarding hands-on career.