Career and Technical Training Scholarships for Low-Income adults in Alabama

Training Programs

AOD scholarships are available for in-demand vocational and technical training programs that will lead to well-paying careers. These programs can be completed in two years or less and include Licensed Practical Nursing, Machine Tool Technology, Welding, Automotive Service, Heating and Air Conditioning, Drafting, and Computer Information Sciences.

Assistance

Scholarships are designed to address the gap between financial aid and the total expected costs for tuition, books, and any occupational certification/licensing tests. On a case-by-case basis, assistance may also be provided toward other living expenses such as childcare, gas cards, and rent.  Unexpected difficulties with other living expenses can delay the timely accomplishment of educational goals and entry into the job market with new skills.

Recipients

Adults targeted for this scholarship are the working poor in low skill/low paying jobs whose income is below or near the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services poverty guidelines.  Scholarship applicants are recruited from the J.F. Drake State Financial Aid Office and other local area non-profit organizations that work with low-income clients.

Funding

Learn and Earn scholarships are funded through private individual and business donations. Government funds are not used. We want our clients to know that caring neighbors, churches, and businesses in their community and beyond are assisting their career aspirations.

Selection Process

Basic eligibility requirements are 19 years of age or older; financial need; U.S. citizen; high school diploma or GED; and driver’s license.  AOD uses a four-step selection proccess:

Step 1:  Evaluate paper applications.  The strongest are selected for an interview. 

Step 2:  Conduct and evaluate in-person interviews of applicants.

Step 3:  Select scholarship finalists based on application and interview.

Step 4:  Conduct background checks for confidence in employability.  Note:  Criminal record is not necessarily a disqualifier and will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Other Aspects

AOD can also assist scholarship recipients with tutoring, resume preparation, job interview coaching, and job placement.