For 12 students at Jefferson State Community College, they have the opportunity to obtain a scholarship while gaining valuable experience. The college has recently partnered with WKW Automotive to provide students with valuable experience in addition to scholarship funds.

A new partnership between WKW Automotive and Jefferson State Community College will provide local students with financial assistance for tuition and books, a paid internship, and a career opportunity this fall.

“The WKW Automotive partnership not only helps students with their educational costs, but it provides a paid internship and equips them with real-world training for in-demand employment,” said Jefferson State Interim President Keith Brown. “This is a wonderful opportunity for our students and we are excited about the partnership with WKW.”

The partnership will provide 12 Jefferson State manufacturing students an opportunity for a paid 24-hour-a-week internship at WKW Erbsloeh in Pell City.

“This new partnership between WKW and Jeff State is an incredible opportunity for our local residents seeking higher paying jobs,” David Felton, program coordinator said. “The apprenticeship program allows students to obtain financial assistance for tuition and books and also earn income while working part time. The work is scheduled around the student’s school schedule and work tasks follow the course topics being taught reinforcing their learning. WKW continues to support our community by advancing these type of innovative programs.”

Students will work as an advanced machine operator apprentice while taking classes toward an associate in applied science degree. Classes are within Jefferson State’s manufacturing and technology degree option.

“As WKW grows and expands its business with automotive OEM’s, we’re excited to offer an opportunity for talented individuals to build a future together with us and Jefferson State in the form of an apprenticeship,” said WKW Automotive President Todd Green. “This is a new endeavor and WKW is eager to embark on this journey with Jefferson State.”

Applications to this program are now being accepted for the spring semester and must be completed by Nov. 1. To apply, complete the application at jeffersonstate.edu/wkw.

“This partnership allows us to provide our customers with great quality work through our new Advanced Machine Operators and will also provide individuals with a great education and career opportunity,” Green said.

For more information and program requirements, go to jeffersonstate.edu/wkw or call (205) 856-8517.