Pedrozzi Foundation Supports Vocational Training

Since 2008, the Pedrozzi Foundation has awarded scholarships to 1,000 Livermore students, including those pursuing vocational training. The Foundation is expanding its support of students pursuing career training through a strategic partnership with ABC NorCal, Associated Builders and Contractor, Northern California Chapter, by offering tool scholarships to participants in ABC’s Apprenticeship Training Program.

Through its federally and state approved apprenticeship program, ABC NorCal provides training in carpentry, construction craft laborer, electrical, painting at its Livermore location and plumbing training in Sacramento. There is no fee for the training for these highly demanded skills, but apprentices need to purchase their own tools throughout the program. Graduates of the Livermore School District who have been accepted into one of ABC NorCal’s apprenticeship programs are now eligible to also apply for a tool scholarship from the Pedrozzi Foundation. The scholarships will be from $1,000 to $2,000 depending on the length of the program and disbursed over a one- or two-year period.

“Apprentices are paid while they receive on-the-job training in addition to their classroom and lab training at ABC NorCal, but the cost of tools can be a deterrent. In addition to providing timely and critical funding, these scholarships let apprentices know that the community values all avenues of post-high school education and training,” explains Kathy Coyle, Pedrozzi Foundation Board President. “We are excited about our partnership with ABC NorCal and expanding support for people gaining skills which are in high demand in the labor market,” continues Coyle.

The application and enrollment process for the ABC NorCal Apprenticeship Program is ongoing, so the Pedrozzi Foundation Tool Scholarship application process will be ongoing as well. Those interested in learning more should visit the organizations’ websites at ABCNorCal.org and Pedrozzi.org.

The Pedrozzi Foundation will continue to award scholarships to Livermore students pursuing any certified vocational training program. Knowing that vocational training is an important path, community members are funding Pedrozzi Vocational Scholarships. In honor of Alan’s father, Francis Burnham, Livermore residents Alan and Mary Burnham are funding multiple vocational scholarships. Francis was a longtime vocational training advocate. He taught industrial arts, vocational training and adult education and was active in the Iowa Vocational Industrial Clubs of America, now SkillsUSA. “My father thought it was important to treat all students with respect and help those who did not want to pursue a traditional academic path,” shares Burnham.

As it has since 2016, the Rotary Club of Livermore will continue funding its Ed Rundstrom Vocational Scholarship through the Pedrozzi Foundation. Since 2005, the Club’s annual scholarship has been named in honor of educator and community leader Edwin Rundstrom. Rotary club members are proud to support students pursuing career training. Pedrozzi Scholars awarded the Ed Rundstrom scholarships have pursed training as a diesel mechanic and a radiology technologist.

“We are proud that Pedrozzi Scholars follow different routes towards rewarding careers – whether it be through community colleges, universities, graduate schools, or vocational training programs,” says Coyle.
The 2018 Pedrozzi Scholarship applications open January 1, 2018 and are due March 1, 2018. Applications are accessed from the Foundation’s website – Pedrozzi.org.

ABOUT THE PEDROZZI FOUNDATION
The Pedrozzi Foundation provides college and vocational scholarships and resources to Livermore students. We believe that all students deserve the chance to pursue their educational and career goals and that the lack of finances or information should not be a barrier. Every day we create an impact by helping our students achieve their dreams. The Foundation was established by Mario Pedrozzi, a Livermore businessman, who left his estate as a gift to the community. Other community members are continuing Mr. Pedrozzi’s legacy by generously donating to this unique and high-impact community organization. Learn more at Pedrozzi.org.