ManufactureCT Extends Deadline for Scholarships

ManufactureCT, a statewide association dedicated to strengthening Connecticut’s manufacturing sector, has expanded its scholarship program since its launch in 2023. Young people who are enrolled in a manufacturing program or entering the workforce are eligible to apply for scholarships ranging from $500 to $2,000. The application form is available online and may be accessed on the ManufactureCT website, under Resources [https://manufacturect.org/scholarships/]

Scholarship funds may be applied to formal educational programs, specialized training, or tools and resources that will assist the young manufacturer to succeed in the workforce. To ensure students don’t miss out, guidance counselors at Connecticut high schools with manufacturing programs have received informational packets to share directly with eligible students.

Marcia LaFemina, President and CEO of the lighting company Penn Globe and founder of MATCH, a manufacturing training program, is Chair of Manufacture CT’s Workforce Development Committee. Says LaFemina, “ Investing in the next generation of manufacturing talent is not just a commitment to our industry—it’s a commitment to our communities and our future. This scholarship opens doors for students to build meaningful careers right here in Connecticut, and we’re proud to support the hands-on training and innovation that will shape tomorrow’s workforce.”

Family members of any of ManufactureCT’s member company employees are eligible to apply for the Kris Lorch Scholarship in the amount of $2000, named in memory of an industry pioneer who lived, worked, and innovated in Connecticut manufacturing. They are also eligible to apply for an MCT Friends & Family Scholarship in the amount of $1,000. The directory of member companies is publicly accessible on the ManufactureCT website: Business Directory Search - ManufactureCT.

In addition, the MCT Association Scholarship is open to any graduating senior who is continuing their education in manufacturing or directly entering the workforce. Eight of these will be awarded, in amounts of $500 each.

Says Kate Houlihan, Executive Director of ManfactureCT, “These opportunities exemplify our mission at ManufactureCT—to strengthen the manufacturing ecosystem by supporting education, access, and opportunity. With just one week more until the application deadline, we urge all eligible students to seize this opportunity now and take a step toward a rewarding future in Connecticut manufacturing.”

The application deadline for all scholarships is April 30, 2025. Those selected to receive the scholarships will be announced in June. For more information about the scholarship program or other ManufactureCT initiatives, email admin@manufacturect.org or call (203) 574-8285, x7261.

More about ManufactureCT: Founded in 1913, ManufactureCT is a statewide forum for Connecticut community and business leaders focused on sharing perspectives from inside manufacturing facilities to build collective strength for the sector. ManufactureCT – MAKE THE FUTURE