IDEAL Electrical, Sycamore, IL, recently  launched its Pathways Fund to address the shortage of electricians in the United States. The grant program helps skilled trades students cover non-academic costs so they can finish their programs and start their careers.

According to The Hope Center, 73% of two-year college students report basic needs insecurity, and 83% of students who left school cited it as a reason. A car repair, a gap in childcare or a certification exam fee can be enough to end someone's training.

The pilot program includes a $50,000 initial investment in Midwest community colleges, with plans to expand to additional schools and regions. Each partner school receives a $10,000 annual grant to cover student needs like transportation, childcare, food security, mental health services and certification exam fees, along with donated IDEAL Electrical tools and supplies for hands-on learning.

"Students learn best when they can focus on building skills rather than worrying about affording basic needs," said Nicole Juday, director of the IDEAL Foundation, in the press release. "IDEAL Industries has supported the skilled trades for more than 100 years, and through the Pathways Fund, we're proud to help more students begin their careers in the trades."

The first two recipients are Hennepin Technical College in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, and Milwaukee Area Technical College, both selected for the strength of their electrical programs and apprenticeship placement rates.