Unlike traditional scholarships that assist students in completing their education, the Midland Area Construction Talent Attraction Program is designed for individuals who have already completed some form of postsecondary education and are now entering the workforce. Eligible applicants must be employed or self-employed in a construction-related business with a physical office in Midland County and reside in Midland, Gladwin, or Clare Counties—all communities the Midland Area Community Foundation serves.
The Midland Area Construction Talent Attraction Program offers financial assistance to skilled workers in the construction industry who choose to build their careers in the Midland area. This initiative addresses the growing workforce shortage in construction and aims to attract and retain qualified professionals by providing loan repayment assistance ranging from $5,000 to $20,000.
To qualify for the Construction Talent Attraction Program, applicants must hold a certification in a building-related trade or skill, an associate’s degree, or a bachelor’s degree from a college, community college, or trade school.
One of the first beneficiaries of the Midland Area Talent Attraction Program is Midland-native Katlin Adams, Project Engineer for Three Rivers Corporation.
Katlin Adams, in her own words:
“The journey to where I am now started in middle school. I took a lot of woodshop classes and loved them, and when I went to high school, one of my teachers strongly suggested I took the links trade class. I took it for three years. I wanted to know how he knew everything. How do you know when to order stuff? Who do you hire? And now, that’s what I do every day. I keep track of paperwork, work with subcontractors, and order supplies.
I had all of the hands-on experience in high school, so when choosing a college, I knew I would learn better with books. Eastern Michigan University had more of a book-learning program than a hands-on program. I graduated early and completed my studies in Construction Management in 3.5 years.
I always knew I was going to come back to Midland. I was born and raised here, and I love it. Three Rivers Corporation has always been everywhere. I wanted to work there since I was in high school. After graduating from college, I applied for an internship there, and two weeks after my internship concluded, they offered me a full-time position.”
The program is part of a broader effort to foster regional economic growth and sustainability. By attracting and retaining skilled talent, Midland County strengthens its ability to complete high-quality construction projects while providing, attracting, and retaining professionals through loan repayment assistance to establish long-term careers in the community.
“This program is a direct response to the needs of our community,” said Sharon Mortensen, President & CEO of the Midland Area Community Foundation. “We recognize that construction professionals are essential to Midland County’s growth and sustainability. By offering loan repayment assistance, we are not only supporting individuals in their careers but also strengthening the local economy and ensuring that vital projects move forward.”
For more information about the Construction Talent Attraction Program, contact the Midland Area Community Foundation at 989-839-9661 or email info@midlandfoundation.org.
