In the three years since WSU Tech, then Wichita Area Technical College, announced the workforce initiative Wichita Promise, they have awarded more than $1.1 million in scholarships to 730 people. The scholarship program is aimed at removing barriers that keep people from getting trained and promises tuition-free training in high-demand career fields. It also guarantees a job interview for participants. “We knew we had to do something,” said WSU Tech President, Dr. Sheree Utash, “Wichita needs a trained workforce if we are going to continue to grow and keep businesses here. We are seeing students come to college and in just a few weeks leave with well-paying jobs and a new future.” WSU Tech anticipates reaching a total of over 1,000 Wichita Promise scholarships awarded by the end of the 2019-2020 academic year.
The scholarship applications for the 2019 summer semester and 2019 fall semester opened this week. Eligible programs include sheetmetal assembly, aviation, composite fabrication, process mechanical paint, and pre-health courses for practical nurse, dental assistant, and surgical technology. The scholarships are awarded on a first-come, first-serve basis. Individuals interested in applying should visit www.WSUTECH.edu/WichitaPromise.
