Picture of Ruthann Gaston

WoTM Ruthann Gaston Women in Manufacturing Scholarship

Supporting women pursuing a career in the manufacturing industry.

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Winter Scholarship - Open Open This scholarship is part of the Winter application cycle. The application is open December 1st to February 1st every year. How to Apply

Eligibility Criteria

Applicant must

- Be female.
- Currently reside in the WOTM service area (Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, Winnebago, and Rock County as of the fund establishment date).
- Be currently enrolled or plan to enroll in a college, university, or technical school within the WOTM service area; students at Kishwaukee Community College or the NIU@RVC Engineering Program are eligible to apply.
- Intend to enroll in manufacturing-related courses in the upcoming school year.
- Plan to enter a field related to industrial manufacturing.

Specifications

For the purposes of this scholarship, industrial manufacturing refers to the processing of raw materials or parts into finished goods through the use of tools, machinery, or labor in a timely and cost-efficient manner.

Written Prompt

Each CFNIL scholarship is created with a specific purpose in mind. As you complete the application, the system automatically matches you with every scholarship for which you are eligible and will present you with a specific written prompt for each. You're encouraged to craft a unique response to each prompt to show the reviewers why you're the best candidate for that scholarship.

Scholarship Background and Intent

WOTM is a not-for-profit networking organization for professionals who are employed in, or serve, manufacturing in the Greater Rockford Area. The group is open to men, women, and young professionals, and offers a unique approach to networking and professional development with a strong focus on strengthening our scholarship program. Through interactive dinner meetings, manufacturing plant tours, and fundraising events, we are able to educate our members and serve our community.

Ruthann Gaston has volunteered with WOTM since its founding in 2003 and has been extensively involved in its activities, including the administration of WOTM’s first scholarship with CFNIL, the WOTM Scholarship.