Technical Scholars, a two- to three-year commitment, enables qualified students to earn an associate degree from Aiken Technical College, while working for local industries. Technical Scholars offers students a unique opportunity to gain academic and practical experience simultaneously. The participating student attends class full-time and works with a sponsoring company 15-20 hours per week. The sponsoring company pays for the student’s books and tuition after financial aid has been applied. Each Technical Scholar will be paid up to $18 per hour for the semester (minimum of $14 per hour; Technical Scholars may be paid more per hour at the sponsoring company's discretion). Thereafter, the sponsoring company may award incentive increases based on company policies and academic/work performance. No previous technical experience or training is required. What can the Technical Scholars Program do for you?

It can … 

• Provide you with free tuition and books, regardless of your (or your parent’s) income.
• Provide you with a well-paying, part-time job while you attend school full-time.
• Provide you with on-the-job experience in your field.
• Advance your education in your chosen field.
• Allow you to earn an associate degree in your field.
• Serve as an entry point to a well-paying job after graduation.

Partner Companies 

• BAE Systems
• Bridgestone
• Emerson/ASCO
• Grace 
• Hubbell
• Solvay Specialty Polymers
• SRP Federal Credit Union
• The Carlstar Group
• Valmet
• Zeus Industries

Goals 

1. To provide appropriate technical training, area industries and the College collaborate in the on-going development, implementation, and evaluation of Technical Scholars sponsorship requirements.
2. To incorporate essential knowledge, skills, and experiences into a coordinated sequence of academic courses and on-the-job training.
3. To select students with the potential to complete a rigorous academic and experiential curriculum which will prepare them for success in highly technical careers.
4. To provide alternative educational experiences for academically qualified individuals entering technical careers.
5. To enable students to obtain an associate degree in selected technical fields regardless of the student’s financial status by providing scholarships and paid cooperative work experiences.
6. To provide an opportunity for graduates to secure rewarding careers with outstanding area industries.
7. To develop (and provide) qualified individuals for area industries through an on-going, proven process of selecting, training, and promoting high-quality technicians.
8. To promote an awareness among students, parents, and educators of the technical demands and technical careers present in today’s workplace.

If you are interested in working in a technical field, take a moment to review our curriculum:

• Computer Programming Technology (CPT)
• Electronic Engineering Technology (EET)
• Engineering Graphics Technology (EGT)
• Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC)
• Industrial Maintenance Technology (IMT)
• Machine Tool Technology (MTT)
• Radiological Control (RPT)
• Welding (WLD)

A limited number of positions are available each year. To apply for a position, or if you want additional information, contact the Technical Scholars Student Coordinator.