Moraine Park Technical College is proud to announce 50 construction and industrial trade apprentices received the 2024 Tools of the Trade scholarships from Ascendium. Each apprentice received $2,000 to use toward the purchase of equipment, tools and clothing, tuition and more.
Apprenticeships are training programs that provide learners with on-the-job experience and classroom instruction– they pair on-the-job training with classroom instruction, allowing individuals to earn while they learn. They are an alternative pathway to a family-sustaining career in an in-demand field. Many apprentices complete their programs and secure employment with businesses in the Moraine Park district.
“Ascendium’s long-time support of Moraine Park Technical College and its students has significantly helped to ensure educational success,” Bonnie Baerwald, Moraine Park Technical College president, said. “Their support through Tools of the Trade scholarship, as well as other areas, have helped our students focus on completing their education and securing jobs throughout our district.”
This year, Ascendium awarded 800 scholarships after receiving a record number of applications. Over the last 11 years, Ascendium has provided over $5 million in scholarships through its Tools of the Trade Scholarship Program. Apprentices can apply for a scholarship if they are enrolled at a WTCS college and receiving credit for both fall and spring semesters, are enrolled in an eligible construction or industrial trade, and demonstrate a financial need.