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A second round of scholarships will be awarded this year for 50 students to train for automotive manufacturing careers at Alabama’s community colleges.

The Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association and Alabama Community College System have partnered to provide a total $180,000 in scholarships, as well as mentors, to 50 students who want to pursue a technical education certificate or associate degree in the automotive manufacturing industry. The deadline to apply is Nov. 15.

The first scholarship recipients were awarded earlier this year to start programs this fall. Students awarded after the November deadline will begin classes in the spring, summer or fall semesters of 2020.

Interested students with at least a 2.5 GPA can learn more information and apply directly through the website, https://dreamitdoitalabama.com/aama/. Applicants must use the scholarship toward an automotive-related program, including the following: Automotive Manufacturing Technology; Automotive Manufacturing; Automotive Service Technician; Computer Numerical Control; Engineering Technology; Industrial Electronics Technology; Industrial Maintenance Technology; Injection Molding; Logistics; Machine Shop/Tool Technology; Manufacturing Technology; Mechanical Design Technology; Mechatronics; or Welding Technology.

AAMA President Ron Davis said the scholarship program was designed to build interest in the exciting and rewarding careers the automotive industry offers.

“The access our scholarship recipients have to mentors in the industry, in addition to the training they’ll receive while studying at an Alabama community college, provides tremendous opportunities in the automotive manufacturing industry,” Davis said. “Our partnership with Alabama’s community colleges is industry and education working together the way they should to help individuals succeed.”

Jeff Lynn, ACCS’ Vice Chancellor of Workforce and Economic Development, said the scholarship opportunity complements other work-based learning initiatives in place for community colleges to continually provide world-class training that meets Alabama’s industry needs. Such programs, including the expansion of apprenticeships and internships, add significant value to industry-led training at the community colleges.

“The best advice we receive for how to educate and train an excellent workforce for employers and entrepreneurs is directly from the source – Alabama industry,” Lynn said. “With industry input and continued investment in career and technical training, including scholarships and new programs, the Alabama Community College System is providing what both employees and employers need to succeed.”

The total award is $3,600 for each student. The award covers tuition, fees and/or books needed. A full submission for the scholarship requires the following: a completed application; a resume; a maximum 500-word essay on why the student wants to work in Alabama’s automotive industry; one signed reference letter; an unofficial college or high school transcript; and a headshot photo.