The Minnesota Precision Manufacturers Association’s Education Foundation will offer scholarships ranging from $500 to $1,000 to help motivated students with an interest in manufacturing get the training they need to become successful in the field. Applications must be submitted by April 15 and can be downloaded at www.mpma.com/page/educationfoundation.

The foundation was formed to address the shortage of people entering the manufacturing field by supporting students, school technical programs and educational institutions. Last year, $8,500 worth of scholarships were awarded to students enrolled in manufacturing programs at Pine County Technical College, Alexandria Technical and Community College, South Central College, Bemidji State University, University of North Dakota, Central Lakes College and South Central Technical College.

The organization also supports the institutions responsible for training students. The foundation donates money to schools to help them finance the purchase of much-needed new equipment and software. Providing them with the necessary tools for properly educating youth ensures new employees are ready and prepared for their careers in manufacturing, according to a press release.