Kathleen Hohl, Communications and Events Director
414-297-6208 (office); 414-235-7105 (cell); hohlk@matc.edu

MATC Receives National Science Foundation Grant
Funds to Support Science and Technology Careers Scholarships

MILWAUKEE (Sept. 6, 2011) – Milwaukee Area Technical College has received a National Science Foundation grant to develop curriculum and recruit students who will pursue careers in science and technology.

The first phase of the grant is $10,245 for curriculum planning and student recruitment. It is anticipated that MATC will receive an additional $589,734 for support of student scholarships, pending the availability of funds and progress of the project.

“This prestigious National Science Foundation grant will help continue our commitment to preparing students for careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields that are in high demand,” said MATC President Dr. Michael L. Burke.

The grant will support approximately 36 students enrolled in the college’s Chemical Technology, Civil Engineering Technology, Electronics Technology, Mechanical Design Technology, Information Technology (IT) Network Specialist and IT Programming/ Analyst Associate in Science Degree programs. Students in the Electronics Technology program can pursue an associate degree in Computer Electronics Technology, Biomedical Electronics Technology or Electronic Engineering Technology. Students in these programs are targeted due to consistent demand for graduates, growth in local industries and the needs identified by local economic development initiatives.

The goals of the project include:

• Increasing the number of academically talented, economically disadvantaged freshmen entering STEM associate degree programs
• Attracting underrepresented women and minorities into STEM careers
• Providing financial support and reducing the need for outside employment
• Delivering academic and individualized support and enrichment experiences designed to increase program retention/completion
• Preparing students for transition into careers or baccalaureate degrees
• Enhancing recruitment of students into MATC’s Biochemical Excellence in Science and Technology (BEST) program

This is the second consecutive year MATC has received a grant from the NSF. In 2010, the college received a $526,937 three-year grant from the National Science Foundation to increase the number of students transitioning to baccalaureate degrees in STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) fields through its Biochemical Excellence in Science and Technology (BEST) program.