SANFORD, Fla. -- CNC Machines has announced it is accepting applications for a $2,500 scholarship for students pursuing a certification, certificate, associate degree or bachelor’s degree in a manufacturing-related area of study, including woodworking.

CNC Machines is a national used CNC machine marketplace that helps manufacturers buy and sell used CNC machines, primarily CNC mills and CNC lathes. The company introduced the CNC Machines Manufacturing Scholarship program in 2018 and awarded its first round of scholarships earlier this year. The amount of the award has increased to from $2,000 to $2,500 since then.

Over the past several years, the manufacturing sector has been on a growth track leading to creation of more jobs.

“As American manufacturing continues its resurgence, the focus now needs to turn to aggressively addressing the looming and potentially devastating skills gap. CNC Machines is committed to doing its part and this scholarship, along with other programs we offer, is our way of stepping up to the plate to help the industry grow,” said Curt Doherty, CEO.

To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must submit a 1000-1300-word essay via CNC Machines’ online form about why they chose to pursue a care in manufacturing; what they think can be done to attract younger generations to the field; as well as include information on their skills, goals and future plans. Applications are due by January 17, 2020 and the winner will be announced on February 3.

For more information about the CNC Machines Manufacturing Scholarship and to apply, go to http://cncmachines.com/scholarship.