Empowering Futures: Massachusetts Community Colleges Receive TRAIN Grants
Thirteen community colleges across Massachusetts are gearing up to make a significant impact in their communities with a new influx of funding totaling about $1.5 million. This state-funded initiative, known as the Training Resources and Internships Network (TRAIN) grants, is designed to support over 500 unemployed and under-employed individuals in acquiring vital skills and training. Governor Maura Healey emphasized the importance of these grants, noting, “Free community college has opened doors for thousands of students, and these TRAIN grants will open even more by helping adult learners gain the STEM and workforce skills that power our economy.”
Springfield Technical Community College: A Catalyst for Change
The grant announcement was celebrated at Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) during Massachusetts STEM Week, underlining the state’s commitment to fostering educational and career development in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Notably, STCC itself received $150,000 to enhance its certified nursing assistant program. This funding will not only bolster the college’s offerings but also address the critical need for nursing professionals in the state.
A Diverse Range of Programs
Among the other colleges benefiting from the TRAIN grants, Cape Cod Community College stands out with its $107,209 award aimed at training for addiction recovery and medical interpreters. This initiative recognizes the pressing need for skilled professionals in the evolving healthcare landscape, particularly in addiction recovery, where trained personnel can make a profound difference.
Quinsigamond Community College was awarded $106,183 for its personal care assistant workforce development program, a timely response to the growing demand for personal care providers. Meanwhile, Holyoke Community College will utilize a $123,235 grant to develop its paraeducator training program. Each of these colleges plays a crucial role in strengthening workforce readiness by tailoring their programs to meet local needs.
Fostering Long-Term Success in Fitchburg
In a different but equally important endeavor, Mount Wachusett Community College has embarked on a seven-year GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) grant project aimed specifically at the students of Fitchburg Public Schools. This innovative project will provide sustained academic, financial, and family-based support services to students as they transition from middle school through to college graduation.
The GEAR UP initiative targets two cohorts: the 6th-grade Class of 2032 and the 7th-grade Class of 2031, and will serve over 832 students in its initial years. By engaging students early, MWCC and its partners are paving the way for academic success and college readiness, fostering a generation that is well-equipped to thrive in higher education.
Innovations in California’s Math Education
Shifting our focus to California, Pasadena City College has received an almost $500,000 grant from the National Science Foundation. This funding will be directed toward a transformative project aimed at revolutionizing math education by embedding data science and mathematical modeling into the curriculum. This unique approach not only prepares students for STEM challenges but also promotes research and mentorship opportunities, creating a seamless academic pathway from PCC to California State University, Los Angeles.
Jie Zhong, an associate professor of mathematics at Cal State LA and the grant’s lead investigator, stated, “Our pathway with Pasadena City College creates a seamless bridge for students to build confidence and capability in data-driven mathematics.” This project exemplifies the collaborative spirit between community colleges and university systems to enhance student outcomes.
Cybersecurity Awareness in Illinois
In Illinois, Moraine Valley Community College is addressing the urgent need for awareness in cybersecurity careers with a $900,000 grant from the National Science Foundation. This initiative aims to dismantle stereotypes surrounding cyber roles—often depicted as solely hacker-centric—by showcasing the vast array of career opportunities available in the field. With over 19,000 jobs currently unfilled in Illinois alone, this program seeks to inspire students to explore various careers from policy analysis to technical roles.
The grant team will develop comprehensive resources, including toolkits and workshops, to educate high school and college faculty about cybersecurity career pathways, ensuring that students and their families receive accurate information about these lucrative opportunities.
Supporting Skilled Trades in North Carolina
On the East Coast, Brunswick Community College has made waves by establishing a new endowment, created by a generous $25,000 gift from the Matthews family. The David Matthews, Jr. Endowment will provide scholarships for students embarking on careers in trades such as electrical work, HVAC, plumbing, carpentry, and other skilled professions.
Teresa Nelson, the executive director of the Foundation of Brunswick Community College, remarked on the significance of this initiative, stating, “Through this gift, David’s legacy will live on in the success stories of BCC students who share his drive, determination, and love of learning.” This endowment not only honors the legacy of David Matthews but also underscores the community’s commitment to fostering skilled trades education.
These initiatives across various states highlight a profound commitment to education and workforce development, ensuring that future generations have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed. Each program is a testament to the growing recognition of the vital role that community colleges play in shaping the workforce of tomorrow.
