ATLANTA – Norfolk Southern has launched a Trades on Track scholarship program to help the railroad attract vocational students to its workforce.
The $5,000 scholarships can be used for tuition, computer equipment, tools, and other expenses for people living in any one of the 22 states that NS serves. Atlanta-based SkillPointe Foundation is overseeing the program, which is open to new or current students, those looking to reskill or make a career change.
“Norfolk Southern moves the American economy, and our trade colleagues are helping us build the railroad of the future. To ensure continued success, we are investing in the next generation of railroaders through industry-leading training, competitive benefits and compensation, and challenges that provide opportunities for long-term growth,” Kristin Wong, director of the Norfolk Southern Foundation & Community Impact, said in a statement.
People pursuing railroad careers are eligible to participate in the program. Positions include locomotive engineers, conductors, track and signal maintenance, mechanical and equipment maintenance, welding, electrical engineers and technicians, safety and operations, construction, and heavy equipment operators.
Vocational school enrollment is up over 15% from pre-pandemic numbers and experiencing a second year of double-digit growth, according to the National Student Clearinghouse, a Virginia-based nonprofit.
To apply, visit the Trades on Track application website by Sept. 30.
Good news.
Glad to see money spent on the trade, 5k per student seems pretty low budget though.