Chris Patino is a resilient and purpose-driven student whose journey is shaped by family, faith, and a relentless work ethic. As a first-generation Mexican-American from a rural town in North Carolina, Chris has learned to turn struggle into strength. Whether he’s leading on the football field, excelling in rigorous dual enrollment classes, or running his own small business, Homescaping, he brings pride, discipline, and heart to everything he does.

Chris is most proud of founding and running his own business, Homescaping, which he has grown since January 2023. Through offering services like landscaping, minor repairs, and home improvement support, he developed skills in customer service, time management, and technical repair work– all while balancing school, sports, and community service. His ability to lead and adapt is further reflected in his year-long apprenticeship as an Assembly Technician apprentice with Caterpillar, where he works on industrial components and sharpens his mechanical understanding.

Chris is deeply committed to serving others, especially youth in his community. He coaches local football teams and mentors younger students, hoping to inspire the next generation of Latino leaders in STEM. Chris values the power of storytelling, mentorship, and legacy.

He dreams of becoming an electrical or mechanical engineer– not just to build machines, but to build bridges of opportunity for families like his own. For Chris, success isn't about guaranteed outcomes. It’s about fighting every day for the chance – the shot– to make something greater.