Republican-Eagle: Workforce Development Scholarships increase this year at MSC Southeast

Funds are helping students train for careers in high-demand, high-paying fields

Written By: Newsroom | 9:39 am, Mar. 2, 2021

The ongoing shortage of qualified employees in the region continues to be an issue for employers. Even with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, students have been coming to the campuses of Minnesota State College Southeast to train in high-skilled, high-demand occupations. However, the cost of tuition and other college expenses can still be a challenge.

"The pandemic has created additional financial burdens for many students,” said Larry Lundblad, interim president of Minnesota State College Southeast. “This year, Workforce Development Scholarships are providing our students with the funds they need to stay in college and complete their degrees for the many well-paying jobs that are currently available.”

Recognizing the need for more graduates in career and technical programs, the Minnesota Legislature first allocated funding for a program piloting Workforce Development Scholarships in 2017. With that support, MSC Southeast awarded $40,000 for students in high-demand career and technical programs in 2018-2019.

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