PR2005 May 4 AUTO
NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 4 2005
FOR MORE INFORMATION: Wendy Jones 205-391-2310
AUTOMOTIVE SCHOLARSHIPS ANNOUNCED
Tuscaloosa - The Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association and the Alabama College System have established a new scholarship program for Alabama students who are interested in pursuing manufacturing careers. Beginning this fall, 25 AAMA Manufacturing Scholarships will help deserving students prepare for automotive manufacturing careers.
Students pursuing a career/technical education certificate or associate degree in designated programs at Shelton State Community College, or any of The Alabama College System schools, will be eligible to apply. The scholarships will be available on an annual basis, representing a major, long-term investment in technical education and the development of skilled workers.
“Automotive manufacturing has long been an important part of Alabama’s economy, but it has grown exponentially in Alabama during the past decade,” Ralph Malone, AAMA President and CEO of Triana Industries said. “Because of the increasing importance of this industry to our economy, AAMA feels that is critical to prepare educated and trained workers who will be important to the industry’s future growth. At the same time, we want to encourage Alabama students to take advantage of the career opportunities available in the automotive industry.”
“The Alabama College System exists to improve access to education and training that allows Alabamians to find good jobs that fuel the state’s economy, “said Alabama College System Chancellor Roy Johnson. “The automotive manufacturers in this state create tremendous opportunity. We are honored by the confidence they have in our programs and grateful for this investment in our students.”
Preference will be given to those students who demonstrate an interest in automotive manufacturing or automotive manufacturing maintenance.
To qualify, a student must be an Alabama resident who has recently graduated from high school or received a GED and plans to enroll in an automotive manufacturing program at a two-year college in Alabama as a full-time student. Eligible programs of study at Shelton State Community College include Computer Numerical Control, Industrial Electronics Technology, Industrial Maintenance Technology and Machine Tool Technology.
The AAMA will award 25 scholarships valued at $1,500 apiece, according to Executive Director Dr. Bernard Schroer.
Applications are available at the Office of Financial Aid on Shelton State Community College’s Martin Campus at 9500 Old Greensboro Road in Tuscaloosa, or through the Internet at www.aama.to or www.acs.cc.al.us. The deadline for application is June 30, 2005.
Applications can be completed on line at www.aama.to or mailed to AAMA, 500 Beacon Parkway West, Birmingham, AL 35209.
The association will assess each application and select the top 25 candidates. Applicants will be notified of their selection no later than July 15, 2005.
AAMA was founded in 2001 to promote the growth and development of Alabama’s automotive industry.