Grainger scholarship supports TVC student
Grainger scholarship supports TVC student
Submitted by Michelle Renfrew
Phone: 907-474-2833
11/18/08
With baby boomers retiring from the ranks of the skilled trade workforce in Alaska and across the country, a growing number of labor experts predict a shortage of trained industrial workers in fields such as welding, electrical, plumbing and construction management. To help meet this need, Grainger, a local distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, recently awarded a Grainger Tools for Tomorrow Scholarship to University of Alaska Fairbanks Tanana Valley Campus student Jeff Misel during a presentation at the Grainger branch in Fairbanks.
"Students like Jeff represent the best and the brightest of the future of skilled labor," said Steve Porter, district branch services manager at Grainger. "Grainger is proud to partner with University of Alaska Fairbanks through the Grainger Tools for Tomorrow SM scholarship program. Together, we can help ensure Alaska has trained professionals ready to meet the demand for skilled trade workers."
Misel, a Fairbanks resident studying process technology, was nominated by TVC faculty members to receive the award. His nominating instructor describes him as an exemplary student who is committed to his studies. Misel is one of 35 technical students across the nation who will receive a $2,000 scholarship and, upon graduation, a Westward tool package from Grainger to support him in his future career.
"I am grateful for Grainger’s generous contribution that will help further my career," said Misel. "This scholarship provides me an opportunity to focus on my goals of earning my degree and pursuing a job in mining and oil exploration technology."
"The employers in Alaska are in critical need of highly skilled workers with an understanding of today’s tools, technologies and processes," said Rick Caulfield, TVC director. "With the increasing demand for these skilled individuals, it is essential that we continue to invest in their talent, and Grainger is doing just that through this scholarship program."