John Kenneth Niemi Memorial Tool Fund
As a recipient of a technical college education and the training that enabled his career as a millwright and later as a refrigeration mechanic, John Kenneth Niemi understood the value of technical education. Mr. Niemi understood that education was a gift to be valued and would want to ensure other young people had the opportunity he had to gain the education necessary to build a solid career. Because of this belief, Mr. Niemi’s family established a memorial fund within LeadMN. This endowed fund provides funds for tool purchases required for completing an HVAC or a ‘hands-on’ trade course of study for students enrolled in a trade program and attending one of Minnesota State’s colleges.
This scholarship awards $500 each semester. Applications for fall semester open January 1st and close April 1st at 11:59pm. Applications for spring semester open July 1st and close November 1st at 11:59pm.
Scholarship Qualifications
- Be an Undergraduate or PSEO student enrolled in one of Minnesota State’s technical or consolidated colleges.
- Priority will be given to a student enrolled in HVAC, a ‘hands-on’ trade or construction course of study that requires the purchase of tools to complete the program.
- Have a grade point average (G.P.A.) of 2.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.
Scholarship Requirements
- Complete and submit the online application by April 1st at 11:59 PM for fall semester or by November 1st at 11:59 PM for spring semester. (The application will require you to indicate the trade program you are studying)
- Please submit a personal essay describing your academic, career, and personal goals. Each goal should be one to two paragraphs with clear distinction between goals. Please do not write out as a bulleted list, but as a paragraph-style essay.
- In your own words, describe how this scholarship will support you in your educational journey. This can be in reference to your financial need, academic supports, time to focus on studies, etc. Please do not write out as a bulleted list, but as a paragraph-style essay
- Submit one letter of recommendation from college staff
- Submit a copy of your school’s unofficial transcript