Outline of Kansas City skyline with text: "Great Jobs KC", "MAKE YOUR MARK", "KC Scholars 2024 - Unlock Your Potential with Scholarships".

Presented by

Logo of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation featuring a white circular symbol with a stylized "K" and the organization's name in white text, embodying its mission to support careers and scholarships.

We are CELEBRATING our newest class of Scholars with our Make Your Mark event designed for our newest Awardees to celebrate with their friends, family, and community. Learn more about the KC Scholars scholarship program, meet the team that will support them throughout their high school and college journey, connect with other scholarship recipients, and more!

But, while we are excited to take a moment to celebrate our awardees, we won’t stop working hard to raise the money needed to provide scholarships for the over 1,000 students still on our waitlist. Join us in creating the IMPACT we need in Kansas City by donating.

Text reads: "Saturday, June 22, 2024 at the Kansas City Convention Center" on an orange brushstroke background. Explore opportunities for scholarships and careers.
Four people smiling and pointing at words on their black sweatshirts, which say "Courageous," "Daring," "Brave," and "Bold," respectively. They stand outside a modern building, embodying the spirit needed to excel in challenging jobs.

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A Message From Our CEO

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We are so incredibly proud of every one of our scholars and are so grateful to you for supporting them in realizing their dreams of a college education.

As we spring forward into the season of renewal and growth, I am thrilled to share some AMAZING news from the heart of our community. It’s our favorite time of year—the KC Scholars Scholarship Awards Season!

This May, we celebrated an unprecedented milestone in our journey to support incredible young adults and adults through education. Together, with the unwavering support of our partners and donors and the relentless dedication of our team, KC Scholars is awarding college scholarships to 1,210 deserving young adults – this is nearly $48 million in scholarship support for many of our future leaders.

Our commitment to making higher education accessible and affordable has never been stronger. This year marks a significant evolution in our approach: for the first time, we are bringing all our new awardees together in one space, surrounded by the proud support of their families, friends, and the community. This change reflects our belief in the collective celebration of individual achievements.

Our 2024 class of scholarship awardees is built from:

• February 29th: 159 Adult Learners were awarded $50,000 scholarships to achieve their college dreams.

• May 1st: We announced our first round of high school awardees — 516 lives impacted in one day because of you. This round of awardees included 252 College Savings Match awards (9th graders), and 264 Traditional $50,000 scholarships (11th graders).

• May 30th: In our second round of awarded scholarships, 530 University-Sponsored $50,000 scholarships will be awarded to 11th grade students in the Kansas City area.

• June 22nd: Our Make Your Mark event will gather all 2024 awardees at the Kansas City Convention Center to celebrate their accomplishments. This celebration will not only honor their hard work and aspirations, but also the collective effort and belief that we have in their potential.

Finally, this fall, we are excited to introduce partnerships with three new universities, which will enable us to award an additional 48 scholarships of $50,000 each to our incredible high school students.

We are so incredibly proud of every one of our scholars and are so grateful to you for supporting them in realizing their dreams of a college education. We could not support these amazing scholars without you.

Thank you for your continued support. Let’s keep making dreams possible through education.

-Earl

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159 Adult Learners were awarded $50,000 scholarships!

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We announced our first round of high school awardees — 516 lives impacted in one day because of you!

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High-Fives INDEED
As a beneficiary of the SAVES program with the KC Mavericks, they donate $10 per at-home save made by their stellar goalkeeper, which amounted to 1,666 saves equaling $16,660!

A person and a mascot high-five while holding a large check for $76,660 made out to "KC Scholars." The check, dated 4-9-24, represents a significant scholarship contribution that promises to open doors for new careers.
Two women stand together smiling, one in a green dress and the other in a graduation cap and gown holding a diploma, celebrating their future careers in front of Mizzou Arena.
Two young girls, wearing climbing helmets and harnesses, give a high-five indoors. Their teamwork might just be the first step towards adventurous careers in outdoor sports.

SCHOLARS FIRST

Our first Core Value, which is the one that drives our mission and inspires us every day, is SCHOLARS FIRST. Here's what our Scholars have to say:

From childhood to college and beyond!

Paige Zieman graduated 2023 from Mizzou summa cum laude with a degree in Health Science.  She applied for entrance to several other colleges to complete her master’s degree as a Physician Assistant.  She chose Wichita State University. She will start her studies in May 2024. Paige worked for Mizzou’s University Hospital And St. Luke’s East while attending college.

Savanna Trivers started at Mizzou the same time as Paige but graduated 2024 with dual bachelor degrees in Journalism and Education & Human Development. She also graduated summa cum laude.  Savanna has been offered a position with Rock Bridge High School as their English And Social Studies Teacher for the upcoming school year. Savanna plans to also pursue a master’s degree. Savanna worked for Apple, Inc and was instrumental in helping low income students receive free Apple computers while attending Mizzou.

Both girls were recipients of the KC Scholars Scholarship and acknowledge the fact that the scholarship gave them the opportunity to pursue their future dreams.

Text on a black background reads "Great Careers KC Employee Spotlight" in white uppercase letters.

Skills For Success Expo

Join us for the Skills for Success Expo: Community Resources that Support YOUR Future!

Learn about TUITION-FREE job training in HIGH-DEMAND careers that lead to GREAT JOBS!

Services and Resouces Available On-Site Include:

  • Over 20 of the top career training providers in Kansas City including: Johnson County Community College – University of Central Missouri – Centriq – Per Scholas – Metropolitan Community College – Zeta Driving School – Mid-America College of Health Sciences
  • Great Jobs KC Staff to help determine if you qualify for TUITION-FREE TRAINING
  • Kansas City Public Library
  • Free Tablet/Phone Organization
  • Free sport physicals, blood pressure checks, and COVID vaccinations provided on-site by Care Beyond the Boulevard
  • Division of Family Services providing child support assistance

Great Jobs KC COO, Natalie Lewis was invited to take part in the 2024 Collaborative Diversity Conference at Missouri State University

Inclusive Engagement: Uplifting the Power of Community

“Recognizing and embracing diversity, and promoting a welcoming environment, are essential to the Missouri State University Inclusivity Principles. Promoting a welcoming environment is a crucial step towards fostering inclusivity and support for all members of the university and the broader communities.”

Inclusivity and diversity are principles we value here at Great Jobs KC and we are proud to have Natalie Lewis on the forefront of these initiatives on the campuses of our Postsecondary Network partners.

Six people stand together, smiling for a group photo indoors. Casually dressed, they appear to be attending a professional event or conference focused on career development.
The logo of Missouri State University features the words "Missouri State" in large maroon text, with "UNIVERSITY" in smaller black text beneath, symbolizing opportunities for scholarship and careers.
The logo features the text "KC Scholars" with "KC" inside a shield on the left.

High School Scholarship Team

A group of students wearing black shirts with motivational words stand together, smiling in front of a building. The text above reads, "KC Scholars - 1,210 Reasons to Hope and Scholarships for a Brighter Career."

1,210 lives IMPACTED

On May 30, KC Scholars awarded Round 2 Institutional-Only scholarships to 535 11th graders to use at specific institutions within our current Postsecondary Network partners. Congrats to these students and their families! They will join the other 264 Traditional Scholarship recipients, 252 College Savings Match Awardees, and 159 Adult Learners from this year’s scholarship cycle to bring our total of awardees to 1,210.

Ruskin High School Visit

On May 20, Ruskin High School hosted Great Jobs KC for a Lunch and Learn. High school students got to hear from a panel of KC Scholars who are currently in college, three at the University of Missouri-Columbia, and one at Park University. We love it when our current Scholars have the opportunity to talk about their college experience with KC Scholars at their former high school!

CAC College Decision Day

K-State College Advising Corps held a Decision Day event to celebrate KC Scholars awardees graduating from high school! The graduates received raffle prizes ranging from residential living necessities to new electronics. Scholars mingled with each other and networked with staff members from the Postsecondary Network college they will attend in the fall. Congratulations to the KC Scholars high school graduates!

Wyandotte High School Decision Day

On May 1, high school seniors at Wyandotte High School celebrated Senior Decision Day. Students met with the college reps from the institution they plan to attend in the fall. They were also able to enjoy the day with their classmates, play lawn games, and win door prizes. Katlynn Templeton, High School Scholar Advocate, was able to join in the festivities!

A group of people standing in front of a red and white backdrop that reads "Wyandotte" outdoors. Casually dressed, some wear school-themed shirts while discussing scholarships and career opportunities.
A person wearing a graduation cap and gown stands outside the Mobile Center, contemplating their next career move.

Annie Zheng- 2018 Traditional Scholarship Recipient

“As a KC Scholar, attending UMKC to pursue Finance has been an incredible journey. The support provided by KC Scholars has enabled me to pursue my educational aspirations and unlock new opportunities for success. My advice to fellow KC Scholars, if your current major feels overwhelming, you always have the option to explore other academic paths. My original major was Electrical Engineering but after encountering some challenges, I realized it wasn’t the right fit for me. Transitioning to Finance was daunting, but it allowed me to explore a new direction and find a better match for my interests and strengths. Embrace the opportunity to discover what truly inspires you, even if it means taking a different path than you originally planned.”

NSPA Virtual Summit

The Scholarship Team attended National Scholarship Providers Association’s (NSPA) 2-day virtual summit, Focus on Students: Student-Centered Approaches to Strengthen Outcomes. They learned about holistic support strategies, enhancing student outcomes, and prioritizing mental health for scholarship recipients. The team is always finding ways to explore innovative approaches to enhance their work with Scholars, with the ultimate goal of putting Scholars first!

A group of people sit around a conference table with various drinks and snacks, smiling at the camera during a career-focused meeting in an office setting.
Logo for KC Scholars Ambassador Program, featuring the KC Scholars text and Ambassador written on a banner across a shield icon, symbolizing the dedication to guiding students towards scholarships and career success.

KC Scholars Ambassador Program

The KC Scholars Ambassador Program has officially launched! This program is an opportunity for Scholars to become more involved with the organization, create a culture of belonging among Scholars on their college campuses, and further develop their leadership skills. Ambassadors will assist KC Scholars with planning events for Scholars on their college campus, engage in exclusive leadership development opportunities, assist with special organization projects, and be the face of the KC Scholars programs! For the 2024-2025 academic year, we selected 36 amazing Ambassadors representing the four pilot institutions: Kansas City Kansas Community College, Rockhurst University, University of Kansas, and University of Missouri- Kansas City. The KC Scholars Ambassador Program will expand to all institutions in the Postsecondary Network for the 2025-26 academic year. We can’t wait to see the impact KC Scholars Ambassadors will make!

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Presented By:

Logo of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation with a blue circle containing a white "K" and the foundation's name in gray text, symbolizing opportunities for scholarships and jobs.

All of our 2024 scholarship recipients, along with their families, are invited to Make Your Mark on Saturday, June 22, 2024 at the Kansas City Convention Center. This event is designed for Scholars to learn more about the KC Scholars scholarship program, meet the team that will support them throughout their high school and college journey, connect with other scholarship recipients, and more!

Thanks to our generous sponsors:

Thank you to our Gold level sponsors

Logo of Apex CDL Institute featuring the text "APEX" in blue and red, with a stylized red and white truck outline and the words "CDL INSTITUTE" in blue beneath it, symbolizing their commitment to driving your career forward.
Logo of Missouri State University featuring the institution's name in maroon text on a white background, representing a commitment to scholarships and career readiness.
Logo of SnapIT Solutions, featuring the company name in blue and green with circular design elements on the right side, reflecting our commitment to supporting careers in technology.
UMKC logo featuring the letters "UMKC" in blue text with a stylized yellow and blue flame above the letter "M", symbolizing the spirit of innovation and bright careers ahead.
Mizzou University of Missouri" logo with bold black and gold "MU" emblem on the left, representing a gateway to exceptional careers and scholarship opportunities.

Thank you to our Silver level sponsors

DeBruce Foundation logo with the text "Expanding Career Pathways and Scholarships with Agilities.
Logo of Johnson County Community College, featuring the text "Workforce Development & Continuing Education" below a stylized leaf design, emphasizing scholarships and career opportunities.
Logo of Kansas City Kansas Community College featuring interlocking red and blue shapes next to the text "Kansas City Kansas Community College" in blue, symbolizing pathways to scholarship and career opportunities.
Green "N" with a tower graphic. Below, text reads "NORTHWEST MISSOURI STATE UNIVERSITY," emphasizing career opportunities and academic excellence.
The logo features a shield with a building and the year 1871, alongside the text "University of Central Missouri," symbolizing both academic excellence and numerous scholarship opportunities.
Logo of the University of Saint Mary with the text underneath a stylized illustration of a dome with a cross on top, symbolizing opportunities for scholarships and career advancement.
A black square with a white border containing the text "Zeta Driving School" in red and white letters, guiding you towards new careers.

Thank you to our Bronze level sponsors

Logo of Avila University featuring a purple shield with a stylized "A" alongside the text "Avila University" in purple font, embodying its commitment to providing scholarships and shaping successful careers.
Logo of Children's Mercy Kansas City, featuring a blue outline of an adult figure embracing a smaller yellow figure beside the organization's name, symbolizing opportunities for scholarships and careers in pediatric care.
Logo of Johnson County Community College featuring overlapping colorful leaf shapes above the college name, symbolizing opportunities for scholarships and careers.
Colorful logo with three overlapping speech bubbles in blue, orange, pink, and green. Below the bubbles, the text "Lillian James Creative" is displayed in pink and orange, symbolizing dynamic creativity and career growth.
Logo of Metropolitan Community College Workforce and Economic Development, focusing on jobs and career advancement.
Logo of Mid-America College of Health Sciences featuring an eagle flying over a globe with text to the right, symbolizing the pursuit of scholarships and future job opportunities.
Logo of Walz Tetrick Advertising featuring a stylized torch icon in orange and blue, symbolizing the enlightenment gained through scholarships, with the company name in bold blue lettering below.

Thank you to our In-Kind level sponsors

Logo of KC Digital Drive, featuring green text with "KC" inside a circle of dots on the left and "Digital Drive" in bold letters on the right, embodying their commitment to advancing digital careers.
Text image with "complete technology" in orange and "IT Services Redefined" in gray below it, highlighting exciting career opportunities.
HMX LIVE logo in black with a green play button symbol in the center and 'LIVE' in green text on the right, perfectly representing the excitement of career opportunities.
A logo with the text "HOT 103 JAMZ!" in a bold, pink, brushstroke-style font on a white background, embodying the energetic spirit that drives careers in music and entertainment.
A circular logo with the words "UP UP & Away!" in pink stylized font on a blue background with a green border, symbolizing a scholarship opportunity.
Logo reading "Great Jobs KC" in blue and green text, with "KC" inside a shield-like shape on the right. Perfect for highlighting career opportunities!
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What is

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Access to a short-term, flexible, skills-based career training program that is TUITION-FREE, if you qualify.

  • It’s short-term because you can complete the program in less than a year.
  • It’s flexible because our training partners offer programs that include virtual, online, on-campus, hands-on, or even hybrid training.
  • It’s skills-based because you master high-demand skills that employers are seeking in the following careers: healthcare, construction, information technology, logistics/warehouse, or manufacturing. 

It’s a career training program because it trains you for a career, not just a job. A career with a salary that helps you secure your future.

How does the Great Jobs KC Program Model Work? Program Model: Five Elements of the Great Jobs KC Model

1. Intake

  • Identify Career Interests/Goals
  • Schedule interested participants for career specific orientation
  • Introduction to Scholar Advocate

2. PROFESSIONAL CAREER SKILLS WORKSHOPS

  • Life Skills: Time, Money, and Stress Management
  • Career Skills: Resume, Networking & Job Search, Building your Brand
  • Workplace Skills: Working as a Team, Effective Communication, Managing Change

3. OCCUPATIONAL SKILLS TRAINING

  • Scholar Advocate Support
  • Scholar Support Resources
  • Complete Training
  • Assistance National/State Certifications
  • Introduction to Career Resource Manager

4. Employer Network Team: EMPLOYMENT

  • Update and complete resume
  • Introductions to Employers
  • Interviewing Preparation 

5. ONE YEAR COACHING & MENTORING POST-EMPLOYMENT

  • Frequent communication from Scholar Advocate during first year of employment
  • Alumni Support

What programs does Great Jobs KC offer?

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Healthcare

  • Clinical Medical Assistant (CMA)
  • Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
  • Dental Assistant
  • EKG/ECG Technician
  • Medical Billing and Coding
  • Administrative Medical Assistant
  • Pharmacy Technician
  • Phlebotomy Technician
  • Sterile Processing
  • Certified Medication Technician (CMT)
  • Certified Medication Aide
  • Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)
  • Firefighter/ Fire Science

Manufacturing

  • Certified Manufacturing Associate
    • Assembler
    • Machine Operator
    • Operations Clerk
  • Welding Technician
  • Environmental Remediation/ Hazmat
  • FANUC Handling Tool Operation and Programming

Information Technology

  • Networking Technician
  • Computer User Support
  • IT Support Specialist
  • Digital/ Social Media Marketing
  • Data and Business Analytics
  • Sales Development and Operations
  • UX Design
  • Software Development
  • IT Apprenticeships (separate application process)
  • Data Analytics
  • Project Management
  • Cybersecurity Specialist
  • Web Development and Design

Logistics/Warehousing

  • Commercial Driver’s License (CDL)
  • Warehousing Specialist/ Materials Handler

Construction

  • Construction Fundamentals
  • CAD (Computer Aided Drafting and Design)
  • Revit BIM (Revit for Building Information Modeling)
  • Pre-Apprenticeships and apprenticeships:
    • Iron workers
    • Electricians
    • Carpentry
    • General labor
    • Painters/glaziers
    • Operating engineers

Service Careers

  • Dog Grooming
  • Insurance Agent
  • Insurance Specialist
  • Claims Adjuster
  • Culinary Arts
  • Community Interpreter
  • Medical Interpreter
  • ESL Courses

*Subject to change

Want to find out if you qualify?

Fill out the form and find out. Or, if this is the perfect opportunity for someone you know, please share the link with them.

Click Here For Link

Have questions or want to find out more?
Join us online EVERY Wednesday 12:00pm-1:00pm
for a virtual information session.
Join on your computer, mobile app, or device.
Click here to join the meeting
Meeting ID: 221 112 442 485
Passcode: 37VfG6
Or call in (audio only)
+1 816-406-3910 618051675# United States, Kansas City
Phone Conference ID: 618 051 675#

A man wearing a blue hard hat, high-visibility vest, and blue earmuffs around his neck stands with arms folded, embodying the dedication required for thriving careers in construction.

JOIN US AS WE RAISE A GLASS TO RAISE FUNDS

Flyer for Chicken N Pickle’s Give Back Night on June 11, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM benefiting Great Jobs KC. Support careers as 10% of food and beverage purchases will be donated back. Address and phone number included.

Our Donors, Our Heroes

We remember Ralph (1925-2021) and Marilyn Janet “Jan” Cohen (1933-2024) for their remarkable generosity and lasting impact on our community. Their substantial donation to Great Jobs KC exemplifies their commitment to fostering opportunities for individuals to achieve better careers through education and training. Ralph’s rich life as an entrepreneur and philanthropist, coupled with Jan’s passion for learning, advocacy, and nurturing relationships, serves as a testament to their values.

Their devotion extended beyond philanthropy, touching countless individuals through personal acts of kindness and mentorship. As we honor their memory, we celebrate the lives they transformed and the hope they instilled in many. Their legacy will continue to inspire and uplift countless lives, reflecting their deep kindness and dedication to making a difference.

Elderly man with glasses, wearing a checked shirt, smiles in front of a dark background. His warmth reflects a life enriched by both his career and the scholarships that opened doors of opportunity.
A person wearing a straw hat, smiling in a close-up photo, embodying the joy that comes with pursuing their dream careers.

Employer Partner Program

Great Jobs KC’s mission advances knowledge and education while assisting socio-economic advancement for its scholars, employer partners and community.

Our Employer Partnership Program supports your workforce needs by providing you access to skilled, motivated, knowledgeable scholars ready to work and start their career.

Our scholars are college graduates, interns, certified or trained professionals.

Contact us at employerengagement@greatjobskc.org to partner with us.

 

Here Are Some Of Our Current Employer Partners

The Swope Health logo features the name "Swope Health" in a red font against a white background, with a stylized red logo element on the top right, symbolizing opportunities for careers and growth.
Geiger Ready-Mix logo with the text 'Building Materials Since 1892.' Supporting future builders with scholarships.
A red logo featuring the letters "E" and "K" inside a square, with the text "Building Excellence" below it, symbolizing opportunities for careers and jobs.
Logo of CORE Concrete & Ready Mix with "CORE" in bold black letters and a green triangle incorporated into the "R". The text "CONCRETE & READY MIX" is under the main brand name in smaller font, symbolizing stability and growth—values that drive your career at CORE.
Logo of Children's Mercy Kansas City, featuring a blue outline of an adult figure embracing a smaller yellow figure beside the organization's name, symbolizing opportunities for scholarships and careers in pediatric care.
Logo of Lockton with a globe-shaped design above the company name in bold letters and the tagline "Uncommonly Independent" below a blue horizontal line, symbolizing opportunities for careers.
Logo of Cass Regional Medical Center featuring a green and orange design above the text, symbolizing opportunities in careers and scholarships.
Tutera logo with "T" in a decorative circle above the word "TUTERA," and the text "senior living & health care" below, symbolizing a career committed to elder care.
Logo featuring stylized figures of an adult and a child, with text listing Clay Platte Family Medicine, Summit Family and Sports Medicine, Cobblestone Family Medicine Clinic, Barry Pointe Family Care, and information on available scholarships for medical careers.
Logo of Samuel U. Rodgers Health Center featuring a stylized swan with the name in uppercase letters and "Health Center" in lowercase letters beneath, symbolizing opportunities for careers in health care.
AdventHealth logo featuring the text "AdventHealth" with a four-leaf design in varying shades of blue and green, representing opportunities for scholarships and jobs.
MHC logo with red letters encapsulated by a black and white elliptical shape, symbolizing opportunities for scholarships and jobs.
Logos of North Kansas City Hospital and Meritas Health side by side, representing a commitment to careers in healthcare.
The image shows the logo for Vibrant Health, featuring a colorful ‘V’ composed of small triangles on the left and the words "VIBRANT health" to the right, symbolizing opportunities for scholarships and jobs in the healthcare industry.
Logo featuring a red "M" encircled, followed by the text "MID-STATES" in brown uppercase letters, embodying a commitment to careers and opportunities.
The Ingredion logo features a green circular design with stylized leaf motifs, and the company name "Ingredion" written in gray text beneath, symbolizing growth and opportunities like jobs and scholarships.

How does the partnership work?

Our Employer Partnership Program has three options that will allow you to increase the skill level and diversity of your current workforce while impacting the entire Kansas City workforce of tomorrow.

If we can help you find the staff you need, contact us at EmployerNetwork@greatjobskc.org.

What's your Investment?

TALENT SUPPLY

Annual membership for a set number of hires.

TALENT ACQUISITION

Per hire fee based on industry and number of hires.

TALENT DEVELOPMENT

Partnership where you cover 50% of training funds to upskill current staff to better paying jobs.

What's your Return?

TALENT SUPPLY

Access to our qualified Scholar candidate pool on an ongoing basis to fulfill yearly hiring needs.

TALENT ACQUISITION

Access to our qualified Scholar candidate pool to fulfill immediate staffing needs.

TALENT DEVELOPMENT

Great Jobs KC financial investment covering 50% of training funds to upskill your current employees to better paying jobs.

What are the three program options and how do they work?

TALENT SUPPLY

OUR CONTRIBUTION:

Access to our qualified scholar candidate pool.

EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTION:

Annual membership of $20,000 with up to 10 trained hires guaranteed.

Annual membership of $28,000 with up to 20 trained hires guaranteed.

Annual membership of $40,000 with up to 40 trained hires guaranteed.

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT:

New hire follow-up and support:

GJKC Advocates

One-on-one personal support through training and the first year of employment.

Workforce Development

We offer online training courses to support each new hire’s soft-skills development during their first consecutive six months of employment.

Scholar Support Resources

Access to community resources that aid in the managing of responsibilities while scholars adapt to work schedules and job expectations during the first twelve months of employment.

TALENT ACQUISITION

OUR CONTRIBUTION:

Access to our qualified scholar candidate pool.

EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTION:

$1,200 per hire in manufacturing and construction

$2,500 per hire in the medical or IT field.

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT:

New hire follow-up and support:

GJKC Advocates

One-on-one personal support through training and the first year of employment.

Workforce Development

We offer online training courses to support each new hire’s soft-skills development during their first consecutive six months of employment.

Scholar Support Resources

Access to community resources that aid in the managing of responsibilities while scholars adapt to work schedules and job expectations during the first twelve months of employment.

TALENT DEVELOPMENT

OUR CONTRIBUTION:

Great Jobs KC provides you with up to 50% of training funds to support your identified training needs. Per Scholar maximum contribution:

$5,000 (Health Industry)

3,500 (IT Industry)

$2,000 (Manufacturing Industry)

$1,250 (Construction Industry)

EMPLOYER CONTRIBUTION:

You are partnering with us to cover the remaining cost of training, 50%.

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT:

Follow-up and support:

GJKC Advocates

Not applicable.

Workforce Development

Additional training funds could be facilitated if applicable.

Scholar Support Resources

Access to community based resources available if needed.

OUR TRAINING PARTNERS

Five people posing in front of a banner that reads "National Association of Workforce Development Professionals." They are standing in a line, smiling, and appear to be at an event focused on career opportunities.

Leaders from the Great Jobs KC team attended the National Association of Workforce Development conference where they were able to attend workshops and network with some of the best workforce teams in the country.

The Education Partner team visited Per Scholas’ Welcome Breakfast. George Hudson, Education Partner Director, was asked to speak at the event, where he commended Per Scholas on this innovative IT training approach.

A seminar with people seated at tables in a room with a mural on the wall. Two speakers are at the front, one holding a microphone. A sign on the right reads "Closing the Tech Skills Divide." Scholarships are available for attendees looking to advance their careers.
People are working on computers in a bright office space with wooden floors and large windows; some individuals are engaging with each other, discussing their careers.

We are excited to announce the first day of classes with our newest training partner, Per Scholas.

Our Great Jobs KC training program Scholar Advocates, Career Resource Managers, and the Education Partner department all came together for a day of training and team building.

A group of people stands in a line in a spacious, open office area with tables, laptops, and plants. Two people seated at a table in the foreground engage in conversation about upcoming scholarships while working on their laptops.
A group of people seated in a semicircle attends a presentation in a spacious room with modern decor and multiple artworks on the walls. A person stands and speaks about careers in front of a screen.
A group of people are gathered in a large, well-lit room with tables and chairs, some sitting and using laptops while others engage in conversations about jobs or scholarships.
Microsoft logo featuring the name "Microsoft" in grey letters next to a four-colored square symbol consisting of red, green, blue, and yellow sections, embodying the brand's core values that drive innovation and career opportunities.

We currently have 10 IC Stars scholars who have been connected with Microsoft Executive, Michael Stephens, Senior Director of Network Acceleration based in KC and members of his team, both in KC and out of state, to provide mentorship throughout their program and internship. This will ultimately be a 2 year mentorship. Stephens reached out to us for the opportunity and we identified the IC Stars cohort as the match for his offering. IC Stars does embed a mentorship component into every one of the cohorts, so this was an ideal opportunity.

Below are topics the mentorship will build upon.

  • AI / API
  • Job Shadowing
  • Mentors coach the cohort on the day-to-day responsibilities of the following: Scrum Master / Business Analyst / Technical Analyst / Quality Analyst / Client Engagement Manager / or other tech-related or tech-adjacent jobs.
  • There are opportunities to discuss business and leadership skills they may need to develop for the specific roles listed above.
  • There are also opportunities to coach on email etiquette, professionalism, time management, the importance of balancing multiple tasks with different deadlines and/or stakeholders.

Introducing your mentors...

Person with sunglasses is speaking into a microphone about scholarships and gesturing with one hand while standing in a well-lit area.

Patrick Ecord

Senior Software Developer

Software engineer based in Kansas City, Kansas. With a background in Web development and proficiency in programming, including C#, Java, node JS, and JavaScript, currently working at Microsoft, he brings a hackers curiosity to his work, always eager to dissect and understand complex systems.

A man wearing a dark suit jacket and light-colored shirt, smiling at the camera with a blurred street background, exudes confidence perfect for a promising career.

Nitin Akarte

Principle Tech. Program Mgr AI Network Delivery

Extensive 24+ years of experience in network and cybersecurity engineering and programming management. Currently, delivering networks for AI data centers. Love helping people succeed in their careers.

A woman with light brown hair wearing a black coat and red scarf, reflecting on her career choice, leans against a tree by a body of water.

Natalie Seaton

Principle Tech. Program Manager AI Delivery

Technical program manager, focussing on data intelligence and process optimization in cloud network build out space. Worked for 20+ years as a program manager in technical and academic fields.

Man wearing glasses and a light blue collared shirt, smiling at the camera with a neutral grey background, ready to embark on new careers.

Marc Bowser

Director of Construction - Data Center Operations

Program manager currently leading all construction online data center campuses. Mark has 15 years of design and construction experience spanning the mission, critical and sports/venue market sectors.

A man with short brown hair, wearing a blue shirt and a dark blazer, smiling at the camera against a gray backdrop, exuding confidence and readiness for new career opportunities.

Michael Stephens

Sr. Dir. Network Acceleration - AI Delivery

Program manager working in Microsoft cloud network deployment area for last eight years. Over 25 years in program management, most of it in wireless smart phones. Lead a global team of PMs focussed on cloud network.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

The Great Job KC Community Engagement Team recently demonstrated their commitment to community service by serving freshly made popcorn at two local school field days. At Holy Cross Catholic School, the students expressed immense gratitude for the delicious snack, creating a fun atmosphere and enhancing their field day experience. The sight of happy children enjoying their treats speaks to the positive impact of even the smallest gestures. The team’s presence and engagement significantly boosted the spirits of everyone involved, highlighting the importance of community involvement in creating memorable experiences for our little ones.

Similarly, at Ervin Elementary, approximately 200 staff and parents were pleasantly surprised to receive snacks during their field day festivities. The unexpected treat generated excitement and fostered a sense of camaraderie among the adult attendees. The enthusiasm and appreciation from the Ervin Elementary community underscored the significance of the Great Job KC Community Engagement Team’s efforts. These small contributions are making a big impact, demonstrating how dedicated community service can bring joy and strengthen community bonds.

A group of children and adults enjoy popcorn and outdoor activities at a park event. Some kids have painted faces. A person operates a popcorn machine indoors, while orange cones mark an activity area where career-focused games inspire the young ones about future jobs.

HELP US HELP MORE

We thrive on feedback. Let us know what you think, review us on Google. It provides us feedback, and the review helps us rank higher on Google, which means more people find us, and we can CHANGE MORE LIVES. Click Here For The Link

A flyer titled "Great Jobs KC" prompts users to scan a QR code, linking to Google reviews. The text encourages leaving a review to help more people find great jobs and scholarships. The background features someone working at a computer.

Notice Our Email Addresses Have Changed?

To go along with the recent expansion of our name to Great Jobs KC, our organization’s email addresses are changing. Please reach out to your contact(s) here to get an updated email address. Our previous emails will continue to work for a few months, but please make sure to update them soon. Staff emails will be based on first and last name, but email addresses referenced on our website will remain the same before the @, but after the @, it will now be @greatjobskc.org.

A group of graduates in caps and gowns celebrating outdoors. Text on the image reads "Over $12 million in scholarships being awarded." These scholarships are paving the way for promising careers.
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Stephanie underwood - Chief financial Officer

Stephanie Underwood serves as Chief Financial Officer at Great Jobs KC, where she leads the organization’s financial strategy in support of its mission to create economic mobility through education and workforce opportunities. With more than 17 years of experience in nonprofit finance, Stephanie brings deep expertise in financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, and compliance. She is passionate about using her career as a platform to serve and support mission-driven organizations, helping them maximize impact through strong financial stewardship.

Prior to joining Great Jobs KC, Stephanie served as Chief Financial Officer for Griffith Centers, a behavioral and mental health organization, where she oversaw financial operations for a multi-million-dollar organization spanning residential, educational, and community-based programs. She also spent nearly a decade as Vice President of Accounting Services at NFP Partners, providing CFO-level leadership to nonprofit organizations across the country, with a focus on strategic growth, audit readiness, and governance.

Outside of her professional role, Stephanie volunteers her time at her church and serves on the board of a local nonprofit. She is known for her collaborative leadership style and her commitment to aligning financial strategy with mission impact. She holds a Master of Science in Accounting and is proud to be a first-generation college graduate.

 

 

 

Adult Learner College Scholarship

Program offers:

  • Up to $25,000 paid directly to the college over the course of up to six years.
  • Once awarded, the Scholar can enroll full or part-time the fall semester following awarding.
  • Scholarship can be used at any of our college partners. See our current list of partners HERE.
  • Scholarship can be used towards an associate’s degree, bachelor’s degree, or a credit-bearing credential. 

Eligibility Requirements: 

  • Be a high school graduate or GED holder (24 years or older).
  • Live in one of the six eligible counties. (Kansas: Wyandotte, Johnson; Missouri: Cass, Clay, Jackson, Platte)
  • Be income eligible. (FASFA Student Aid Index of 12,000 or less)
  • Have not previously earned a bachelor’s degree.
  • Have not previously been awarded a KC Scholars Scholarship (Traditional or Adult Learner).
  • Is not currently enrolled in a Great Jobs KC Skills Training Program.
  • US Citizenship/Residency is not required to apply.

If you need more information on program details, please find our FAQs HERE

Jimmy Swift - Chief Operating Officer

As the Chief Operating Officer, Jimmy Swift is responsible for overseeing our core programs, our adult workforce development program, Great Jobs KC tuition-free job training, and our KC Scholars Scholarship Program, which includes 11th Grade Traditional Scholarships and Adult Learner Scholarships. 

Jimmy has a career in education that spans more than 25 years and is built around supporting and improving the performance of career training programs and leading the operations of degree-granting institutions. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in management and has served as Campus President, Vice President of Career Services, and Executive Director of various career schools.  

Most recently, Jimmy served as the Vice President of PLA University at Phalen Leadership Academies, bringing access to job skill training to the parents and families of the Scholars served by Phalen Leadership schools across the country.  Beyond his higher education experience, Jimmy serves as the Executive Board Chairman for Project Safety Net NY, a nonprofit community-based agency delivering a broad range of health, education, and prevention services to the New York Community. As the Chief Operating Officer for Great Jobs KC, he and his team are poised to make a substantial impact on the economic stability and future of Kansas City.

Great Jobs KC
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