George and Mildred McCoy, former slaves who escaped to Canada, instilled in Elijah values of resilience, hard work, and determination. Their own experiences shaped his worldview and prepared him for the challenges he would face.

Recognizing Elijah's exceptional aptitude for mechanics, George and Mildred made significant sacrifices to send him to Scotland for an apprenticeship in mechanical engineering. This investment in his education was crucial to his future success.

George and Mildred provided ongoing moral support and encouragement to Elijah throughout his life. Their belief in his abilities helped him persevere in the face of racial discrimination and other obstacles.