Community
Employment for Education Program
Tillamook PUD has a history of support and partnership with our county schools. One example is the Employment for Education program. For over 45 years, one Tillamook County high school senior is selected to participate in the program. Since the program began in 1965, Tillamook PUD has paid the students over $900,000.
The Employment for Education Program has always been about mutually supporting the community, the student and the PUD. What is different about this program is that it is a work program, not a scholarship. The student starts the program immediately following high school graduation. Students work during their school breaks, and the money earned is applied towards tuition and text books.
Hard work is a requirement, as students start by assisting tree trimming and line crews. Tasks include brush clearing, flagging, operation of power-driven equipment and machinery and other tasks as assigned. Students may be assigned in the office performing general office tasks, answering phones and assisting customers.
Applicants must be a U.S. citizen and a resident within the Tillamook PUD service area. The student must:
- be at least 17 years old
- have a valid driver's license
- completed two years of mathematics beyond Algebra I and two years of science including biology
- graduate with a minimum 3.0 grade average
- plan to achieve a two or four-year college degree
The PUD Board of Directors interviews all applicants and bases its decision on academic achievement, educational/career goals, employment experience, extra-curricular activities, financial need and leadership qualities. An alternate is selected in the event the winning candidate cannot continue with the program.
The program recipient must attend school full-time and maintain grades to satisfy college requirements.
