CHICAGO - Grainger awarded its three remaining 2006 scholarships to Fernando Gomez, Waukegan, Ill.; Brandon Bogle, Milford, Ohio; and Troy Hastings, Baltimore, completing the first year of the company’s Tools for Tomorrow scholarship program. The program provides funding for students at select community colleges to finish their second year in a technical career program.

“As we conclude our inaugural year of the Tools for Tomorrow scholarship program, we are proud to support these exceptional students as they progress in their education,” said James Ryan, Grainger, president. “The students of today represent the future of the technical professions.”

Earlier this year, Grainger and the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) partnered to launch Grainger’s Tools for Tomorrow scholarship program. It is designed to help students in technical education who have demonstrated drive, commitment, and leadership to realize their educational goals. The pilot program awarded outstanding students at seven institutions across the country with a scholarship for their second year of college and a specialized tool package upon successful completion of the program.

Earlier this year, Grainger also awarded Michael Guido, Amanda Korte, Stuart Nielsen, and Margaret Braswell with Tools for Tomorrow scholarships.

“Students enrolled in technical career programs will help to meet a serious and growing skills gap in our country,” said George Boggs, AACC president. “By stepping up to recognize their potential, Grainger is not only helping deserving students, but they are also investing in our nation’s continuing economic success.”

Publication date: 01/15/2007