CHICAGO - Grainger, a leading facilities maintenance supplier,
has expanded its Grainger Tools for Tomorrow® scholarship program for the fifth
consecutive year. In the 2010-2011 academic year, Grainger will offer 75
community colleges across the United States two $2,000 scholarships to award to
community college students enrolled in trades programs such as welding,
plumbing, and construction. In addition, upon graduation, scholarship
recipients will receive a Westward® toolkit outfitted for their trade skill.
Of the 150 total scholarships, Grainger has targeted one-third of
the awards, 50 scholarships, specifically for veterans in recognition of their
service to our country. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in
2009 there were 22 million veterans over the age of 18 with a significant
number likely to enter occupations in installation, maintenance, repair,
production and material moving industries.
“Grainger appreciates the contributions veterans have made to our
country and their potential for service in the workplace,” said Jim Ryan, chairman,
president and chief executive officer of Grainger. He added, “The Grainger
Tools for Tomorrow scholarship program empowers future trades people to
complete their education and helps them start their careers.”
Grainger, in conjunction with the American Association of
Community Colleges (AACC), launched the Grainger Tools for Tomorrow scholarship
program in 2006. The program is designed to help students enrolled in community
college skilled trades programs realize their education and career goals. The
program works with AACC member colleges across the United States to award
students who have demonstrated drive, commitment, and leadership. Over the last
four years, Grainger has awarded scholarships to more than 200 technical
education students at 50 AACC community colleges across the country.
AACC President George R. Boggs noted that available jobs in
skilled trades will grow significantly as current workers retire. “We need to
help students see the potential in these well-paying and in-demand career
fields. Community colleges can help guide military veterans and others who need
to get back on the job to the right training at an affordable cost.”
Visit www.grainger.com for a full
list of community colleges participating in the Tools for Tomorrow scholarship
program.
Publication date:11/29/2010