Statement from Scott Giles, president and CEO of Vermont Student Assistance Corp., regarding the nondegree grant program:

Putting a focus on adult learners who need education and skill training is the right thing to do for Vermont and our workforce needs. Addressing these challenges is not just a matter of economic urgency, but also an imperative of social justice. The nondegree grant program allows thousands of adult Vermonters to find a path to a better career and a better life.

We thank Governor Scott for his continued focus on expanding Vermont’s labor force. The nondegree grant program helps Vermonters in every town move up the economic ladder with a good-paying job and a way of life they can afford.

The nondegree grant program was the first of its kind when it was begun in 1982. Over the last 37 years, more than 38,600 nondegree grants have been awarded. And, the nondegree grant awards have nearly doubled the over the last decade as more adult Vermonters pursue career training.

The need is great. The outcomes for Vermonters are even greater.

• Full-time employment among recipients increased from 42 percent to 54 percent, a 29 percent increase
• Two-thirds of unemployed adult students were working or in school after completing the nondegree course
• Recipients reported increased earnings after completing the course, regardless of their initial employment status

Nearly every conversation about the economic future of our state begins and ends with the need for greater workforce development and for Vermonters to get the education and training required for the available jobs today and the ones coming down the line.   Economists project that by 2020, nearly 7 out of 10 jobs will require education or training beyond high school.  The non-degree grant is a critical part of our efforts to ensure that Vermont residents have the skills they need to achieve their career and life goals.