Credit Unions Join Coalition to Support Trades Workforce


The Maine Blue Collar Scholarship Foundation’s Shawn Moody accepts a $10,000 donation on March 10 at the League.

On March 10, Maine Credit Unions donated $10,000 to the Maine Blue Collar Scholarship Foundation. The Foundation provides financial support to individuals interested in pursuing careers in Maine’s trade industry.

Maine credit unions are leaders in providing innovative financial products and services that help improve the lives of Mainers and their communities. Our network invests in the state’s economy because we recognize an economy with good-paying, sustainable jobs; stable housing; food security; and career opportunities means a good future for Maine’s communities and its people.

“We recognize the challenges our state’s workforce is facing and want to be part of the solution,” said Todd Mason, President/CEO of the Maine Credit Union League. “That’s one of the reasons why we decided to get involved with this scholarship program. Careers in the trades offer good-paying, stable jobs. Having more people pursue these types of career opportunities will be beneficial for Maine’s communities and people.”

Students interested in applying for a 2020 scholarship can submit an application online before April 15. Scholarships range from $500 – $2,500 and can be used to pay for tools, books, uniforms, tuition, and housing. 2020 scholarship recipients will be announced in June.

“We are thrilled to have Maine’s credit unions support our mission to encourage more Mainers to pursue jobs in the trades fields,” said Shawn Moody, Founder, Maine Blue Collar Scholarship Foundation. “To grow and sustain Maine’s workforce, we need to work across industry sectors to reinvigorate interest in the trades. High-paying jobs are available for students who choose trade school or vocational education over a traditional four-year college. Thanks to Maine’s credit unions, even more scholarship opportunities will be available.”