The SME Education Foundation, which has awarded more than $8 million to nearly 3,500 students since 2005, has recorded a 95% increase in completed scholarship applications over its historical average.
A grant from the SME Education Foundation’s PRIME initiative helped Capital High School — located in Helena, Montana — purchase a new CNC plasma cutter and ironworker for the school's machining, welding and mechanical engineering programs.
Luis Rodriguez-Perez graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte with a degree in Systems Engineering. A recipient of the SME Education Foundation’s Myrtle and Earl Walker Scholarship, Luis noted that hard work, financial support, and the encouragement of his family were critically important in his efforts to earn a scholarship.
Kimberly Green has joined the board of the SME Education Foundation, bringing expertise in career technical education and the important role of policymakers and governmental officials in furthering opportunities for students.
Financial support has been awarded to seven schools exemplifying achievement in preparing young people for careers and continued education in advanced manufacturing through the SME PRIME initiative.