Chevron Phillips Chemical Company LP's (Chevron Phillips Chemical) Port Arthur and Orange facilities are pleased to announce they will donate $80,000 to Lamar Institute of Technology (LIT) to purchase equipment and supplies for LIT's process operations and instrumentation programs, as well as award 28 scholarships over the next four years to area high school students pursuing careers in these areas.
Over the past several years, the Port Arthur and Orange plants have collectively awarded $15,000 in scholarships to local students enrolled in the Lamar University system. With the additional funding, the plants will be able to award seven full-time scholarships of $2,000 each distributed annually for a four year period - making a total of 28 scholarships - starting this fall.
"As Chevron Phillips Chemical grows, and the chemical industry enters what is being described by some as a renaissance, so must our workforce," said Margie Conway, Port Arthur plant manager. "It is important that we work closely with LIT to build a qualified and skilled workforce in the area," she went on to say.
The remaining funds will be used to purchase supplies and equipment to give students firsthand, real-world, experience with equipment currently being used in the industry. Furthermore, the plants will offer internship opportunities to all students who are awarded the scholarships.
"We are proud of our relationship with such a wonderful local resource as Lamar Institute of Technology," said Rick Kinder, Orange plant manager. "We are happy to help provide students with the tools, support and the opportunity to be successful in both the classroom and the workplace."
Students interested in the scholarships may apply by contacting Joanne Brown, Director of Development, Lamar Institute of Technology 409-839-2983.