Building on its long commitment to prepare Americans for the jobs of today and tomorrow, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation has partnered with SkillPointe Foundation and the Donohue Family Foundation to create a $100,000 scholarship fund that will support skills training for individuals pursuing vocational training across the nation.
The new fund honors former U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Tom Donohue, who devoted much of his career to driving solutions that make America more competitive, including investments in our nation’s workforce.
The Foundation has selected the Atlanta-based SkillPointe Foundation to manage the scholarship program. SkillPointe Foundation works with individuals who are pursuing high-demand careers that don’t require a four-year degree to address the skilled worker shortage in America, and enable millions of Americans to realize available opportunities and achieve a better life.
Two years into the COVID-19 pandemic, lack of skilled labor has become one of the biggest challenges standing in the way of America’s economic recovery.
At the end of November 2021, there were 10.6 million vacant job openings – a record high – with fewer than one available worker for every job opening. According to a recent U.S. Chamber survey, 94 percent of state and local chambers say businesses in their area are finding it difficult or very difficult to find workers. Coupled with challenges such as pandemic-related burnout and lack of viable childcare options, the nation’s workforce shortage is unlikely to go away anytime soon.
Vocational training programs can play a key role in helping bridge America’s skills gap, especially in industries where the skilled worker challenge is most acute. The Donohue Family SkillPointe Scholarships will be available to individuals of all backgrounds pursuing vocational training in industries such as construction, communications, energy, healthcare, manufacturing, public service, technology, and transportation.
In 2022 and 2023, a total of 50 scholarships will be awarded in the amount of $2,000 each. There will be two deadlines to apply in 2022: March 31 and September 30.
To apply for the Donohue Family SkillPointe Scholarship, visit here.
