The Manistee Manufacturer’s Council proudly announces the creation of a $25,000 endowment within the West Shore Community College (WSCC) Foundation, aimed at supporting students as they navigate barriers to educational success. The council presented the check to WSCC President Scott Ward, highlighting their commitment to fostering a skilled workforce in the region.
Recognizing challenges such as housing, transportation, food insecurity, and childcare, the endowment is designed to provide critical support to students pursuing careers in skilled trades or engineering. This fund falls under the Foundation’s unrestricted category, allowing flexibility to address various life circumstances that may hinder academic progress.
“Manufacturing jobs form the backbone of a thriving community like Manistee, offering residents well-paying positions with substantial benefits,” stated council president Robert Gutowski of Martin Marietta. “Our goal with this endowment is to ensure that students entering the manufacturing field receive the support they need, creating a sustainable workforce for the future.”
Current members of the Manistee Manufacturer’s Council include Packaging Corporation of America – Filer Mill, Martin Marietta Magnesia Specialties, LLC, Morton Salt, Inc., T.E.S. Filer City Station, and Fab-Lite.
President Scott Ward expressed gratitude for the ongoing support from local manufacturers: “This generous donation will provide scholarships annually to students who require assistance beyond tuition and books. It’s essential for donors to understand that today’s students face challenges that were less prevalent in the past, and we are thankful for their commitment to addressing these needs.”
For more information about the endowment or to apply for scholarships, please contact the WSCC Foundation or visit the foundation website.
Photo: In front WSCC President Scott Ward and Bob Gutowski, MMC President. Members, Left to Right – Steve Paine, Todd Guenthardt, Paul Cova, Sherri Wehrmeister, Adriane Schnooberger, Jeremy Logan, Tina Kelly, Holly Koschtial, Chris Doremus, Susan Wrzesinski, Austin Swiatlowski