Training programs at WSU Tech are tuition-free because of local workforce needs

 Wichita, KAN – A full-ride scholarship program will be offered by WSU Tech to help address the need for hiring in the aviation and manufacturing sectors throughout the region. The Wichita Promise scholarship program offers 8-10 week training schedules in high-demand careers and guaranteed job interviews. Classes begin in January 2023 and individuals who complete the program will leave with a certificate, job opportunities, and no college debt.

“With the Wichita Promise we are able to address the biggest barrier facing students, paying for college, while meeting our region’s workforce needs by providing in-demand education and training at no-cost to the student,” said Dr. Sheree Utash, President of WSU Tech. “We are providing this scholarship to encourage those who are ready to begin their careers in aviation, manufacturing, and healthcare right now.”

WSU Tech is hopeful with the recent starting wage increase announcements from both Spirit AeroSystems and Textron Aviation that more individuals will choose to pursue a career in aerospace manufacturing in areas such as sheetmetal assembly, composite fabrication and process mechanic. Both companies have been long-time supporters of WSU Tech and offer a guaranteed job interview to students in the Wichita Promise aviation and manufacturing programs.

“It’s exciting to see the recent investments made by our local aircraft companies,” said James Hall, Dean of Aviation and Manufacturing at WSU Tech. “Competitive salaries and opportunities for growth will attract skilled aviation workers and ultimately keep them in Wichita.”

Eligible aviation and manufacturing programs for the Spring 2023 semester Wichita Promise scholarship include:

 • Aviation Sheetmetal Assembly, Technical Certificate

• CNC Operator, Technical Certificate

• Composite Fabrication, Technical Certificate

• Process Mechanic (Paint), Technical Certificate

WSU Tech will also offer the Wichita Promise scholarship to individuals beginning their healthcare education in registered nurse, practical nurse and surgical technology. The scholarship will cover the pre-requisite courses needed to continue on to one of the aforementioned programs. Healthcare classes will also begin in January. A total of over $150,000 in scholarships will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis at WSU Tech, but more may be offered based on demand. The deadline to enroll is Dec. 1, 2022. To view eligibility requirements, and program details, or to apply, visit www.wsutech.edu/WichitaPromise. 

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WSU Tech is the state’s leader in modern technical education offering over 100 degree and certificate options in aviation, health care, manufacturing, design, information technology, police science and business. In 2018, WSU Tech was named the 2nd fastest growing college among two-year colleges by The Chronicle of Higher Education. WSU Tech serves as managing partner of the National Center for Aviation Training (NCAT) in Wichita, KS and is fully accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a Kansas Board of Regents institution. For more information, visit www.WSUTECH.edu.