Page 20 - South Mississippi Living - January, 2024

COAST NOTE
BUILDING FUTURES, ONE SKILL AT A TIME MGCCC Celebrates $1 Million Lowe’s Foundation Gable Grant
story and photo courtesy of MGCCC
Finding innovative paths to empower students and addressing the crucial shortage of skilled trades workers, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC) recently welcomed
a game-changing $1 million Gable Grant from the Lowe's Foundation. This grant, received during the past semester, is not just about dollars; it's about shaping the future of students and contributing to the nation's infrastructure.
Spanning two years, the grant has already benefited the lives of students enrolled in key programs supported by the funding: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Technology (HVAC); Electrical Technology; Construction Engineering Technology; Precision Manufacturing and Machining Technology; and 3D Modeling and Design Technology.
One of the highlights of the grant is the allocation of funds for student scholarships and the purchase of tools crucial for their future careers. Additionally, students received $50 gift cards for Lowe's purchases, demonstrating the Foundation's commitment to supporting students beyond the classroom.
During a celebratory event held in December, students had the opportunity to express the profound impact the scholarships, tool sets, and gift cards had on their educational journey. Corey King, an HVAC program student at the Harrison County Campus, shared, "The assistance with paying my tuition and the purchase of tools has made my life so much brighter." King, who wants to transition into HVAC work for his current employer, emphasized the financial challenge of acquiring tools for entry- level professionals.
For Carlos Roberts, also in the HVAC program, the scholarship was a game-changer. "It is a weight off my shoulders knowing that I won't have the extra money to pay back just as I enter
the job market," he remarked, expressing gratitude to both the
college and Lowe's for their support.
Giovanni Peña, an Electrical Technology student, echoed
similar sentiments, highlighting the added significance for his growing family. "Coming to the U.S. from Colombia and having the opportunity for an education here already means so much. Adding to that, the fact that I won't have so many educational expenses as I begin my new career means so much for me and my family.”
The grant goes beyond individual student support. It funds
the construction of a tiny house, with each program involved and taking part in the building process. The construction will begin at the George County Correctional Facility in Lucedale, involving incarcerated students in the facility’s newly established Commercial and Residential Construction Technology program.
Obey Parker, the MGCCC instructor leading the training at the correctional facility, emphasized the broad impact of the grant. "The grant really means a lot to all of our MGCCC students and has directly impacted them in such a positive way. It has also impacted the instructors as we move into the building of the tiny house and have additional materials and supplies to expand our programs," he said.
More importantly, the grant not only supports current students but also reaches into the future. The equipment installed at the correctional facility ensures the sustainability of the program, contributing to the development of skills that extend beyond the grant period.
By empowering students with practical skills and industry expertise, MGCCC is actively contributing to the cultivation
of a robust and capable workforce, essential for the nation's economic prosperity. The Lowe's Foundation Gable Grant is not just an investment in education; it's an investment in the future.
20 | January 2024
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