Northwest-Shoals Community College has entered into an agreement with Pilgrim’s to train its employees for associate degrees and technical certifications.
The agreement initiates the JBS/Pilgrim’s Better Futures program, which offers free college tuition to Pilgrim’s team members and their child dependents. The company also offers to pay the remaining tuition balance — a tuition scholarship — for its workers to train in technical programs. The scholarship is effective after all other aid, including federal student aid, is applied.
“This agreement is among many that confirm our colleges’ dedication to the communities they serve. We welcome Pilgrim’s workers who choose our colleges and benefit from this agreement,” said Jimmy Baker, chancellor of the Alabama Community College System.
Pilgrim’s employees become eligible for the scholarship after six months on the job and they are required to work for the company two more years after graduation or completion of a certification. Similar agreements for employee scholarships and professional development will be signed by Pilgrim’s at Snead State and Enterprise State community colleges, which are both close to one of the company’s facilities.
“This program will provide deserving individuals the opportunity to pursue their dreams for higher education and strengthen Alabama communities for generations to come,” said Corey Friend, JBS/Pilgrim’s Better Futures program manager.
Pilgrim’s has more than 56,000 team members across its global network. It processes, prepares, packages and delivers fresh, frozen and value-added food products for customers in more than 100 countries.
Northwest-Shoals Community College has campuses in Muscle Shoals and Phil Campbell, offering more than 100 certificate and degree programs.
