For Landon Alvey, high school wasn’t just about earning credits or deciding a career path — it was about discovering the people who would shape who he is and who he’s becoming.

Landon, a senior at Thomas Nelson High School, is known for his drive. He’s graduating with an associate degree, a resume of real-world engineering experience with the City of Bardstown, and a clear plan to pursue civil engineering at the University of Louisville. But when asked what mattered most in his high school journey, Landon doesn’t start with accomplishments. He starts with people.

“I used to be more closed off,” Landon admits. “I would focus on school, check off my list, and go home. But over time, I realized how important it is to build relationships — with friends, teachers, coworkers. That’s what’s made all the difference.”

That shift began with tennis. What started as a sport became a source of connection — to friends, to coaches, and even to his faith.

“Tennis helped me break out of my shell,” he said. “I met my closest friends there, and it’s where I really started growing spiritually. It made me realize how much I value being part of something bigger than just myself.”

That same theme carried into his engineering experiences. Through the city co-op, Landon worked closely with civil and electrical engineers on complex projects, including redesigning underground electric systems and conducting a fuse audit across town.

“I thought I’d just be doing small tasks, but they trusted me with real projects. That pushed me — but what really motivated me was learning from the people around me. Their knowledge, their support… it gave me confidence.”

Even in the late nights and long hours it took to earn 61 college credit hours, Landon says the encouragement of others kept him going.

“My mom definitely pushed me to take on the challenge,” he said with a smile. “There were moments I hated chemistry and wanted to give up, but she reminded me that it would be worth it. And it was.”

As Landon looks ahead to college and a future in engineering, he carries with him not just academic and technical knowledge, but something deeper — an understanding that people are at the heart of every meaningful pursuit.

“My advice to other students would be: focus on people. Get to know others. Learn from them. Be open. The connections you make — that’s what you’ll remember. That’s what shapes who you are.”

Landon’s story is a reminder that success isn’t just about what you accomplish — it’s about the relationships that help you grow. And as he moves into the next chapter of his journey, Landon does so grounded in the people who helped him find his purpose.