Exciting News from Midwest Technical Institute
Midwest Technical Institute (MTI) recently unveiled the recipients of its 2025 High School Scholarship Program, celebrating a commitment to future generations. This year, MTI has provided an impressive 80 scholarships, amounting to a total of $269,000, awarded to promising high school seniors from Illinois and Missouri.
Acknowledging Future Talents
Louie Schonauer, the Director of High School Admissions at MTI, expressed excitement about the stories shared by the students. He said, "Every year, we look forward to hearing students share their stories, passions and excitement about pursuing a career in the skilled trades. We want to congratulate each of these seniors for taking the initiative to create a brighter future." These scholarships are a testament to the dedication of students striving to build their careers in skilled trades.
Top Award Recipients
Various campuses under the MTI umbrella distributed scholarships in different amounts. Highlighted below are a few of the exceptional students who received the highest awards:
Moline, Illinois Campus
- Jazimine Eckmann-Allred from Rock Island High School, awarded a $10,000 scholarship in Cosmetology.
- Lucas Kirgan from Moline High School, also receiving a $10,000 scholarship for Welding & Pipefitting.
East Peoria, Illinois Campus
- Max Wilson from Eureka High School received $8,000 for Welding & Pipefitting.
- Evan Hansen from Prairie Central High School was awarded $8,000, also for Welding & Pipefitting.
Springfield, Illinois Campus
- Brooke Angel from Athens High School was awarded a $10,000 scholarship in Welding & Pipefitting.
- Payton Hellman from Illini Central High School received an $8,000 scholarship in Medical Assisting.
Springfield, Missouri Campus
- Jessica Orum from Pleasant Hope High School was awarded an $8,000 scholarship in Cosmetology.
- Lauryn Queen from Lockwood High School also received $8,000 in Cosmetology.
About the Scholarship Initiative
MTI’s High School Scholarship Program aims to support high school seniors eager to pursue careers in skilled trades. Rather than focusing on academic achievements alone, the selection process emphasizes the students' passion for their chosen fields. Each winning applicant undergoes a thorough evaluation, which includes a video submission and an interview with campus leadership.
Changing Lives Through Education
According to Schonauer, "We truly believe you change your life by learning a skilled trade. We want to show the younger generation that there’s another path to success that doesn’t involve a traditional 2-year or 4-year college. At MTI, our mission is to prepare you to enter the workforce confident and ready to start a career that will change your life." Such sentiments echo the ethos of MTI’s encouraging environment and its commitment to student success.
Hands-On Training with MTI
Midwest Technical Institute provides extensive hands-on training in numerous skilled trades, including Welding & Pipefitting, HVAC & Refrigeration, Medical Assisting, Cosmetology, Truck Driving, and more. These training programs not only equip students with practical skills but also open doors to flourishing careers in various industries. MTI prides itself on transforming lives through dedicated workforce training.
Get in Touch with MTI
For more information about Midwest Technical Institute and its innovative programs, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the MTI website or reach out to their local campus. Educators, students, and community members alike are invited to discover the opportunities that MTI has to offer in an ever-evolving job market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the total amount awarded in the 2025 scholarships?
The total amount awarded in the 2025 scholarships was $269,000.
How many scholarships were distributed by Midwest Technical Institute?
This year, MTI awarded a total of 80 scholarships across its campuses.
What criteria are used for selecting scholarship winners?
Scholarship winners are selected based on their passion for learning a skilled trade rather than solely academic merit, requiring video submissions and interviews.
Which campuses were involved in the scholarship program?
Campuses in Moline, East Peoria, Springfield, Illinois, and Springfield, Missouri participated in the scholarship program.
What types of training programs does MTI offer?
MTI offers hands-on training in various skilled trades, including welding, HVAC, electrical work, cosmetology, medical assisting, and more.