Summary
Roger Williams University has received a $150,000 grant from the Hayden Foundation to support its Don P. and Elaine M. Hayden Scholarships for students enrolled in trades programs, specifically in Electrical and Plumbing Apprenticeship tracks. This funding aims to help alleviate the growing labor shortage in Rhode Island's construction industry by providing financial assistance to aspiring tradespeople.
This initiative is timely, as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a significant demand for construction-related jobs over the next decade, with hundreds of thousands of openings anticipated annually. By investing in trades education, this grant not only supports individual career pathways but also strengthens the workforce needed to meet the region's economic needs.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
The Hayden Foundation's investment in trades education underscores the importance of registered apprenticeship programs in addressing labor shortages and creating skilled professionals in high-demand fields. By providing financial support to apprentices, we enhance access to valuable earn-and-learn opportunities that pave the way for successful careers in the trades.