WM launches scholarship and grant programs with Chicago college

WM, Houston, has partnered with the City Colleges of Chicago to launch a scholarship and grant program for the transportation, logistics and distribution fields. Both programs launched this month and will assist students in obtaining a degree or certifications for diesel technology, commercial driver’s license (CDL) A or CDL B.  

“Diesel technology is a field that is not decreasing,” says Cheryl Freeman, dean of college to careers at Olive-Harvey College. “As more trucks are needed in the transportation industry, more people are needed to keep the trucks in working order. Machines are not replacing these jobs. “  

The scholarship and grant funding totals about $127,000 from WM, and the program will run until the funding runs out. The selection process lasts a week and more than 20 students will be selected, Freeman adds.  

Students can get the grant, scholarship or both with funding up to $5,000. The money from the scholarship will go toward books and tuition, while the grant will go toward equipment needed to complete courses. Students admitted to the program and who maintain the eligibility criteria will be supported for up to two semesters.  

There are diesel technician positions open to students after completing the basic certification, Freeman says. 

Qualified candidates include current, returning or prospective students at Olive-Harvey College interested in earning the basic certificate, advanced certificate or degree in diesel technology. They could also be interested in earning a basic certificate in CDL A or B or interested in taking continuing education classes that are diesel technology or CDL-focused.