In many places, there are technology education grants provided by charitable organizations, government agencies, and educational institutes to help people who want to obtain this type of training. The demand for technically skilled workers far exceeds the current staffing levels. As a result, there are a wide range of agencies that actively provide education grants for people pursuing this type of training.
There are three types of technology education grants: undergraduate, graduate, and research. A grant is a specific amount of money provided by an outside source, based on an application submitted as part of a funding request. Grants usually have very detailed application requirements and have a list of conditions that must be met to qualify for funding.
Undergraduate technology education grants are available for a wide range of technology-based programs. These programs may be offered at the university or community or career college level. The primary purpose of these types of grants is to help candidates overcome financial hurdles and obtain the education necessary to qualify for a position in this field. Applications are usually submitted by early spring and often require a letter of recommendation from a teacher, along with an official transcript of student marks and a brief biography.
At the graduate level, these types of grants are available to encourage candidates with specific skill sets to pursue further education in this field. Grant applications are much more detailed, often requiring a specific training program or pursuit of a technology-based career option. Letters of recommendation, support from academic advisers, and official transcripts are necessary as part of this process. Keep in mind that grants are highly competitive, and academic success is essential to be considered for this type of funding.
Research technology education grants are often provided to university and college professors to develop technology training programs. These grants are designed to encourage the subject experts to dedicate their time and effort to make the material easier for a broader student base to understand. Incorporating new educational theory, the latest equipment, and the brightest minds is essential to training the next generation in these essential skills.
Grants are a type of scholarship funding that do not have to be repaid. However, it is considered income and must be reported on the recipients' annual income tax. Students who are enrolled in school while receiving a technology education grant will receive an education credit in his or her income tax submission that often completely offsets the income received. The net tax impact is zero, as the tax legislation is designed not to punish grant recipients.