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.
Unlike traditional scholarships that assist students in completing their education, this 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. They must reside in Midland, Gladwin, or Clare Counties—all communities the Midland Area Community Foundation serves.
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 Tanner Wascher of Fisher Companies, a Pinconning High School graduate.
Tanner Wascher, in his own words:
“When I first started, I was pretty young. It was mostly fixing stuff around the house with my dad. Some of the most impactful moments were building deer blinds and sheds in the backyard.
At Pinconning High School, I took shop classes and began building extravagant things. One of my teachers pushed me to learn more about the industry, and I chose to go to Ferris State University because they were very hands-on.
During my sophomore or junior year of college, I decided to chase a different dream and joined the Marine Corps. The Marine Corps had me working with heavy equipment. It was a different type of construction, and I learned a lot.
When I got out, I transitioned into heavy equipment a bit more. I received my CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) and Crane Operator Permit. I worked as a crane operator and traveled a lot, but I wanted something more local. That’s what drove me back to Fisher Companies. I started working there, and it was a really good fit. There are a lot of really good mentors at Fisher who have a lot of knowledge. Now, with Fisher, I have returned to Ferris State to finish my Construction Management degree.”
The program is part of a broader effort to foster regional economic growth and sustainability. The program attracts new construction workers to be employed in Midland County, which in turn will combat community deterioration and improve the economic conditions and quality of life in Midland County.
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.
“The construction industry plays a critical role in the strength and growth of our region, yet we continue to see a decline in available skilled workers,” said Sharon Mortensen, President & CEO of the Midland Area Community Foundation. “By investing in this talent attraction program, we are helping to attract needed professionals in the construction field, ensuring that Midland County remains a place where individuals can build their futures and businesses can thrive.”
For more information about the Construction Talent Attraction Program, contact the Midland Area Community Foundation at 989-839-9661 or email info@midlandfoundation.org.
