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PORTLAND — Central Maine Community College graduate Adam Ouellette was presented a scholarshop and Westward Toolkit recently by Grainger, a supplier of maintenance, repair and operating products, to help start his career in electromechanical technology as part of the Tools for Tomorrow scholarship program.
Each year, Grainger works with the American Association of Community Colleges to offer two scholarships of $2,000 each at participating community colleges in the U.S., according to a news release from Grainger.
The scholarships offer financial assistance for tuition and books to students working toward an associate degree or certificate in skilled trade, supply chain management and public safety programs. In addition to the scholarship, Grainger provides tools to students after they graduate to help them launch a successful career. “I’ve always liked working with my hands, so the trades naturally seemed like the best option for me,” said Ouellette, of Lewiston. “The Tools for Tomorrow scholarship and the toolkit give me a head start in my career and help my chances of becoming remarkable at what I do. From the money to finish the degree to the needle nose pliers to twist the wires, Grainger has given me the tools to get ahead in my field.” In 2016, Oullette was one of 162 scholarship recipients from 86 community colleges participating in Grainger’s Tools for Tomorrow program. Since 2006, Grainger has donated more than $4 million to support technical education. Half of the scholarships offered are earmarked for veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces, according to the release.
“Grainger is passionate about creating positive change and building a strong workforce in the communities where we live and work,” said Mike Hanlon, operations manager of Grainger’s Portland branch. “What began as a way to support workforce development in the skilled trades more than a decade ago has grown into a robust program dedicated to the success of highly motivated students like Adam who demonstrate commitment and aptitude in their fields.”
