Residents who are interested in careers in Alabama’s thriving automotive manufacturing industry can apply now for $4,000 in scholarships.

The money will be available to students enrolled in an eligible Alabama community college program for the 2026 summer and fall semesters. The scholarships will cover tuition, books and fees.

A partnership between the Alabama Community College System and the Alabama Automotive Manufacturers Association makes the scholarships possible.

Eligible programs include: Mechatronics, advanced manufacturing technology, automated manufacturing technology, industrial electronics technology, industrial maintenance technology, manufacturing technology, machining/machine tool/CNC, automotive service technology, robotic welding technology and engineering technology.

To qualify, students must have a minimum 2.5 grade point average and be enrolled in one of the listed programs. Dually enrolled high school students are not eligible.

Applications can be submitted online through the Alabama Community College System’s “Dream It, Do It” website, www.dreamitdoitalabama.com/aama. The deadline for applications is March 27.

According to the Alabama Department of Commerce website, www.madeinalabama.com, Alabama’s automotive manufacturing sector employs around 54,000 people.

Alabama is home to manufacturing facilities that produce vehicles for Honda, Hyundai, Mazda-Toyota and Mercedes-Benz.

The state also has an ever-expanding network of auto suppliers.

Alabama in the top five nationally for automotive production and the No. 2 state for auto exports in 2025, according to the website.

This article originally appeared on The Gadsden Times: Alabama makes $4,000 automotive scholarships available