For the first time, Federal Pell Grant dollars can be used for eligible short-term, noncredit workforce training programs. Metropolitan Community College (MCC) (mccneb.edu) is among the first community colleges in the nation to offer programs eligible for Workforce Pell Grants including Certified Pharmacy Technician, Phlebotomy Technician, CDL and CompTIA+.
“I’ve been in higher education for 40 years, and there’s never been federal financial aid available for these programs. This is a moment to celebrate,” said Gary Girard, MCC vice president of Community and Workforce Education programs.
Funding comes from the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. To qualify, programs must range from 8-15 weeks and require 150-599 clock hours to complete, demonstrate 70% program completion and 70% job placement rates, and represent short-term training leading to industry-recognized credentials aligned to workforce demand.
“MCC was ahead of the curve in developing this model,” Girard said. “Workforce Pell levels the playing field and takes us from a college-for-all model to a learning-for-all model.”
Workforce Pell provides a new entry point to in-demand careers, fewer financial barriers to overcome and shorter time commitments to navigate. Eligibility can be determined by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Visit mccneb.edu/Workforce to learn more information about programs now eligible for Workforce Pell funding. For questions, email CorporateTraining@mccneb.edu.