NDOT, Pillen Administration and Industry Leaders Celebrate Good Life, Great Journey Scholarship Reipients at Signing Ceremony

Sept. 20, 2024 (Lincoln, Neb.) — Today, the Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT), in partnership with the Pillen administration and industry leaders in construction and engineering, hosted a signing ceremony to honor the inaugural recipients of the Good Life, Great Journey Scholarship.

This event celebrated current NDOT scholarship recipients and Transportation Industry efforts to increase the number of Nebraskans pursuing STEM (Science Technology, Engineering and Math) and Trades. The following scholarship recipients were recognized:

James O. Martinez (Lincoln), Information Technology – Network Management, Southeast Community College – Lincoln
Sierra L. Rader (Norfolk), Structural Drafting, Northeast Community College – Norfolk
Layton M. Sailor (Maywood), Diesel Technology, Mid-Plains Community College – North Platte
Burke R. Settles (Ceresco), Electrical Technician, Southeast Community College – Milford

The Good Life, Great Journey Scholarship offers students pursuing approved technical degrees the chance to earn up to 100% paid tuition, books, fees, tools, housing expenses and a paid internship with NDOT. Alongside their studies, recipients gain hands-on experience with their NDOT internship and opportunities for full-time employment after graduation. This program invests in students’ futures while supporting Nebraska’s workforce growth.

In addition to the Good Life, Great Journey Scholarship, full time State employees are eligible for tuition assistance in their field, and 100% tuition reimbursement for family members attending community college. Also, NDOT is a new member in AASHTO’s STEM Outreach Solutions program, engaging K-12 students in real-world problem solving and increasing student exposure to careers in transportation.

Scholarship applications for the 2025 spring semester will be accepted until October 15, 2024. For more information, visit https://dot.nebraska.gov/about/scholarship-program/.

“The Good Life, Great Journey Scholarship reflects Nebraska’s commitment to developing our workforce and encourages students to pursue careers in Trades and STEM. By offering practical experience and support, we’re helping individuals build their careers while ensuring talented workers stay in the state, boosting our economy and strengthening our communities,” expressed Lt. Governor Joe Kelly.

“This scholarship is more than just financial support—it's an investment in our people and our future. By offering paid internships, tuition assistance and pathways to full-time employment, we are creating opportunities that keep our workforce here in Nebraska. These scholarships empower individuals to gain valuable on-the-job training while building their careers, ensuring that we continue to grow Nebraska’s talent right here at home,” shared Vicki Kramer, NDOT Director.

Stakeholders outside of the NDOT are also excited about the opportunities created by these scholarships.

“AGC invests in trades because our industry's future relies on a skilled workforce. Supporting training for mechanics, drafters and other technical roles helps ensure Nebraska's infrastructure projects are done right. Industry leaders understand the value of these trades and are committed to developing the next generation of talent,” noted Tyler Chicoine, Past President, Associated General Contractors, Nebraska Chapter.

"ACEC Nebraska is focused on increasing STEM enrollment and graduation in Nebraska because we need more engineers to drive our future in the built environment. NDOT and other industry partners can support this effort by investing in educational programs and resources that inspire students to pursue engineering careers. By working together, we can build a strong pipeline of talent to meet the growing demands of our industry,” explained Jeanne McClure, Executive Director, American Council of Engineering Companies of Nebraska.

The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Nebraska has played a crucial role in helping NDOT launch this program, providing timely support and approval to get the initiative off the ground. Their commitment to ongoing collaboration has been instrumental in ensuring the program's success and continued development. As the program evolves, FHWA Nebraska remains a dedicated partner, working closely with NDOT to expand opportunities for students pursuing careers in transportation.