New resources available to students for short-term training

Staff reports

Cleveland Community College recently announced a new partnership with The Forward Fund (TFF) to help students in the Electrical Lineworker Academy and the Heavy Equipment Operator Academy cover program costs and cost-of-living expenses during training.

“Traditional financial aid does not usually cover short-term job training programs,” said Tony Fogleman, CCC’s vice president of workforce development. “Being able to offer this option to our students removes a barrier and helps students in two of our most successful short-term programs achieve their goals.”

Through TFF, and its partnership with Ascent Funding, students in the Electrical Lineworker Academy and the Heavy Equipment Operator Academy have access to zero percent private education loans. The loans have no late fees, origination fees, or servicing fees, and students can qualify for an amount between $2,000 and $10,000 to cover expenses such as program costs, housing, childcare, and transportation.

“Helping individuals secure high-wage jobs raises income across the state,” said Meaghan Dennison, Founder & CEO of The Forward Fund. “Higher wages are the rising tide that lifts all boats, and that’s how The Forward Fund helps build a brighter future.”

There is a three-month grace period on payments after graduation, and graduates have up to five years to repay their loans. During this time, they can defer payments until they are earning at least $45,000.

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TFF, headquartered in Wilmington, N.C., is the state’s only pay-it-forward fund. It finances short-term, high-yield training programs in critical sectors such as the skilled trades, technology, and healthcare. By removing financial barriers to education and training, TFF aims to empower local workers to maximize their earning potential, thus fostering economic growth and community development.

To be eligible for a zero-interest loan from TFF, students must already be enrolled in either the Electrical Lineworker Academy or the Heavy Equipment Operator Academy.

Anyone interested in learning more should contact Alan Qualls, Electrical Lineworker program coordinator, at 704-669-4049 or quallsa@clevelandcc.edu.

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Cleveland Community College press release.

The Shelby Independent