Alabama auto manufacturers offer scholarships, mentoring to state community college students

While businesses across the nation are struggling to endure worker shortages and cope with the pandemic-related economic fallout, Alabama's business community continues to grow and expand. No industry is more indicative of the state's economic health than its booming automotive industry; Alabama is home to manufacturing operations by Honda, Hyundai, Mercedes-Benz, and Toyota.

Vehicles are Alabama's number one export and account for over $8 billion in international sales. Now, a consortium of automotive businesses from across the state has partnered with the Alabama Community College System to help ensure that students have access to viable careers in the auto industry.

The Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association (AAMA) and the Alabama Community College System have partnered to offer financial support to students seeking an associate degree or technical education certification in preparation for a career in the automotive manufacturing industry.

The AAMA Scholarship Program provides a $3,600 scholarship for students enrolled in one of Alabama's 23 eligible community colleges. Scholarship winners may use the funds toward tuition, books, or other education related fees for the spring, summer, or fall 2022 course study. Recipients will also receive access to mentorship from established automotive professionals.

Student awardees must have at least a 2.5 GPA and are required to apply scholarship funds toward an automotive-related program. Eligible programs of study include 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.

The application can be found at https://dreamitdoitalabama.com/aama and submissions should be completed by October 29. Interested students should include a 500-word essay, reference letter, headshot photo, and an unofficial college or high school transcript.