Interview by B Vivit

Jessica Wyman, QBP Bike Mechanic Scholarship recipient for the class of 2019 Portland UBI, and I really connected during the scholarship and ultimately I spent a lot of time learning about her awesome shop and her children and their racing. An incredibly clear thinker and always ready with a smile, Wyman asked great questions and boistered spirits when she wasn't busy studying. Even while working through a knee injury, was always incredibly positive and definitely tested the limits of her injury while in Portland. During the QBP Bike Mechanic scholarship, there are folks from all walks of life, and one of the most beautiful things about these classes is that all of that comes together into one class and creates a community that lasts a lifetime. 

Interview by B Vivit

Well-spoken and a force to be reckoned with, were the first impressions of Kristie Holt when she introduced herself in the classroom. It was no surprise to us when Bicycle Retailer asked her to be a part of the State of Retail panel for 2018.  While at the QBP Bike Mechanic Scholarship during the class in October of 2018, Holt stayed late at every opportunity and asked great questions. Holt has always impressed me as a quiet opportunist, not one to necessarily toot her own horn, but she knows; she knows a good opportunity when she sees one, and she is apt to make the most out of what she's given. I've been following the Local Hub Bicycle Company ever since.. 

Update: After 4 years of operation, Local Hub Bicycle Compary sadly closed its doors in December of 2019. 

We’re excited to announce our continuing partnership with Quality Bicycle Products (QBP) to increase gender diversity in the bike community, now in its seventh year. With over 100 graduates of this partnership alone, the QBP Bike Mechanic Scholarship (formerly the “Women’s Bike Mechanic Scholarship”) offers students the chance to acquire skills that will advance their careers in the bike industry, increase their mechanical knowledge, and deepen their bike industry networks.