Mazak Corp. said today it is doubling its support for its SME Education Foundation Mazak Manufacturing Technology Scholarship in response to the resurgence of manufacturing jobs in Ohio and surrounding states.
The machine tool builder, headquartered just south of Cincinnati in Florence, Ky., is increasing the number of full-tuition scholarships from two to four for the 2014-15 and 2015-16 academic years. Students pursuing engineering technology degrees at Cincinnati State Technical and Community College are eligible to apply for the scholarship.
"The ability of this country to research, design and develop innovative manufacturing technologies is critical in our ability to increase productivity in durable goods, which increases employment and provides economic and social well-being," said Mazak Corp. President Brian Papke. "We are reaching out to talented young people to help them secure a viable future with a technology-based education."
Rodney Grover, senior development officer at the SME Education Foundation, said it's crucial to the future of Ohio's manufacturing industry to inspire young people to pursue degrees in engineering technology.
"Our collaborative efforts with organizations like Mazak Corp. help drive the future of the manufacturing workforce," Grover said.
Students can learn more about eligibility requirements and register for the scholarship by visiting the SME Education Foundation's scholarship application site at smeef.org/scholarships. By registering, students will automatically be notified when the application opens this fall.
Mazak Corp., the U.S. subsidiary of Japan-based machine tool maker Yamazaki Mazak Corp., recently increased its Kentucky plant's production capacity to 200 machines per month. Mazak also operates eight technology centers across North America that engineer and test products aimed at improving OEM production.
