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Amanda Sotelo
The University of South Texas’ Advanced Manufacturing Technology Department was recently selected to receive a workforce development gift from GE Aerospace and the GE Aerospace Foundation to build a larger skilled manufacturing workforce.
A total of $165,000 in donations will provide 25 eligible students with scholarship opportunities that cover tuition, books and other costs.



STC Advanced Manufacturing Technology instructor Erika Guerra said the donation will provide some of the students with the financial support they need to complete their education.
“The Department of Advanced Manufacturing Technologies is thrilled to announce that our students have been selected to receive scholarship support from the GE Foundation,” said Guerra. “These scholarships allow eligible students to graduate tuition-free and pursue careers in manufacturing that they are passionate about.”
STC’s Advanced Manufacturing Technology Division offers career paths in precision manufacturing technology, mechatronics, robotics, and manufacturing technician career skills awards, certifications, and associate degrees. The program can be completed within one to five semesters.
The department is also the first facility in the state to earn certification from the National Institute of Metalworking Technology (NIMS), an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) certified developer of precision manufacturing technology standards and competency assessments. .


A press release from GE Aerospace and the GE Aerospace Foundation states that GE has donated $2.3 million to various organizations, including STC. These donations were made as part of a new Morning Consult and GE Aerospace survey of 1,000 U.S. workers across all manufacturing industries, which found that skill development is necessary for new workers and that workers It turns out that this is seen as the key to success and retention.
“Providing training opportunities for employees and reducing barriers to skill acquisition is key to the future of the aerospace industry,” said GE Aerospace Chief Human Resources Officer and GE Aerospace Foundation Board Chair. says Christian Meisner. “But we can’t do this urgent work alone. It will require partners like those awarded by GE Aerospace and the GE Foundation to support workers and the broader industry at this critical time. We look forward to expanding this effort to support.”
Donations from GE Aerospace and the GE Aerospace Foundation will help partners like STC reduce costs for individuals seeking manufacturing skills through scholarships, establish new programs, and expand existing programs.
“The support our students receive from GE Foundation Scholarships is truly transformative,” Guerra said. “Qualified students will have the opportunity to enroll in our Advanced Manufacturing Technology program without incurring tuition fees and will also receive assistance with travel expenses to attend.”
For more information about STC’s advanced manufacturing technology courses and scholarship opportunities, visit https://www.southtexascollege.edu/ or call 956-872-6258.


