Scholarship offers more than $100,000 to Maine students learning trades

GORHAM (WGME) – Some lucky Maine students will be getting more than $100,000 in scholarship money.

The money will go to students and instructors for future education in manufacturing and other trades.

Two organizations, the "Manufacturers Association of Maine" and "Maine Blue Collar Scholarship Foundation," announced the scholarship collaboration this week.

The $100,000 represents a massive expansion of the existing program.

Organizers say it's important to get Maine graduates good-paying jobs.

“We need to replenish the tradespeople in this state to keep our economy going,” Maine Blue Collar Scholarship Foundation Founder Shawn Moody said.

Organizers say the scholarship money can be used for everything from tools to housing.