With baby boomers retiring from the ranks of the skilled trade workforce in Texas 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 fill the void, Grainger, a local distributor of facilities maintenance supplies, recently awarded a Grainger Tools for TomorrowSM scholarship to South Texas College student Edward Arreola during a special presentation at the Grainger branch in McAllen, TX.
“Students like Edward represent the best and brightest of the future of skilled labor,” said Fred Cuellar, Grainger branch manager. “Grainger is proud to partner with South Texas College through the Grainger Tools for TomorrowSM scholarship program. Together, we can help ensure Texas has the highly trained professionals ready to meet the demand for skilled trade workers.”
Arreola, a McAllen resident studying electrical systems, was nominated by the college’s faculty to receive the award. His nominating instructor describes him as an outstanding student who is committed to his studies. Arreola is one of 35 technical students selected from across the nation to receive a $2,000 scholarship and, upon graduation, a Westward® tool package from Grainger to support his future career.
“I am grateful for Grainger’s generous contribution that will help further my career,” said Arreola. “This scholarship provides me an opportunity to focus on my academic goals.”
“Texas employers are in critical need of highly skilled workers with an understanding of today’s tools, technologies and processes,” said Mario Reyna, STC division dean of business and technology. “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.”