KANSAS CITY, MO — Great Jobs KC is excited to announce the receipt of a prestigious Experiential Learning for Emerging and Novel Technologies (ExLENT) grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF). In collaboration with the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), this grant will fund a paid, transformative 8-week summer program for three years, designed to introduce 90 area adults to high-tech career paths in advanced manufacturing and construction.

As the demand for skilled technical workers grows, this initiative aims to demystify these modern industries through hands-on, exploratory learning. Participants will not only gain technical proficiency but will also be paid to learn, receiving up to a $6,000 stipend for their participation in this intensive 8-week summer program.

“Today’s manufacturing and construction sectors revolve around robotics and digital design,” said Karolyn Dreiling, Associate Vice President of Development at Great Jobs KC. “Thanks to the National Science Foundation, Kansas City students can now access hands-on training and a direct route to advanced certifications in these high-demand industries. We are empowering them to gain technical mastery and high-wage stability through a program that prioritizes both real-world experience and continuous professional growth.”

The program is designed as a deep dive into the technologies shaping the future of the built world. Participants will take part in extensive 4-week on-campus courses at UMKC as well as on-site job visits, designed to receive certification in:

• Solidworks Design Associate CSWA certification (32 hours), including CAD
• Universal Robotics Core Training (16 hours).
• OSHA 10 safety certification (10 hours).

Students will experience employer exposure to learn how these skills are applied in real-world employment applications.

The program is unique in its approach. Upon completion of the four-week on-campus learning, participants are not locked into a single track. Instead, Great Jobs KC staff will provide personalized coaching to help graduates transition into:

• Employment: Connecting participants with partner employers looking for entry-level tech
• Advanced Apprenticeships: Transitioning into paid, long-term training
• Further job training through Great Jobs KC vetted training providers, providing skilled training in their area of interest.

While the program is open to adults looking to pivot careers, its major focus is recruiting current high school seniors who are due to graduate. This hybrid style experience allows students to earn money while exploring a career path before making a long-term commitment to work or school.

About Great Jobs KC

Great Jobs KC, a 501(c)(3) organization, drives regional economic stability and mobility by ensuring low- and modest-income individuals achieve family-sustaining careers. Our programs prepare the future workforce through two core pathways: college scholarships (up to $50,000) and tuition-free training in high-demand fields. We ensure success by providing one-to-one support for every participant, from enrollment through their first year of employment. greatjobskc.org