New Opportunities for Quick Workforce Entry: Pell Grants to Support Short-Term Programs at Omaha’s Metropolitan Community College
Metropolitan Community College in Omaha is set to offer Workforce Pell Grants for four short-term certification programs, providing a fast track to employment for many Nebraskans.
The programs that will benefit from this initiative include certification for pharmacy technicians, phlebotomy technicians, a commercial driver’s license (CDL), and CompTIA+, a technology-focused course. These programs are poised to receive financial aid under the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, which was enacted in 2025 to support students enrolling in short-term, workforce-oriented education.
For these programs to be eligible for Pell Grants, they must achieve a minimum 70% completion and job placement rate. Governor Jim Pillen has already given his approval, and the programs are now awaiting the green light from the U.S. Department of Education.
Katie Thurber, Commissioner of the Nebraska Department of Labor, emphasized the program’s mission: “At its core, this program is about ensuring that Nebraskans who invest their time and their Pell dollars can trust that the training will lead to meaningful employment and long-term career success.”
Prospective students must fulfill existing requirements for federal financial aid, such as not exceeding lifetime Pell Grant limits. However, even those who have completed a bachelor’s degree may qualify for these grants to join a workforce program. Additional details can be found in the official fact sheet.
MCC President Randy Schmailzl assures that the Pell Grant should cover the entire program cost for students. “If you want to get something quick, get in the workforce, get going, have a good job, then the Workforce Pell is the route to go,” Schmailzl commented.
The short-term nature of these programs, ranging from eight to 15 weeks, aligns with the Workforce Pell Grant requirements. Governor Pillen noted the importance of this quick turnaround, stating, “Obviously, we’re all expecting 100-and-100% but just so that people understand, it’s a great investment for our economy, great investment for taxpayers.”
Although federal approval is still pending, current MCC students have shared their positive experiences with similar financial aid. Hilda Gutierrez, a CDL program participant, expressed gratitude, “I am so blessed and thankful for you guys because it’s hard being a mother on top of trying to get your situation started, so thank you.”
Another CDL student, Terrence Turner, highlighted the program’s significance for his life post-incarceration. “Being released from prison less than a year ago, and not having the funds and a part-time job, this helps a lot to further my education,” Turner shared.
Rob Jeffreys, Director of the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, pointed out, “We’re breaking down silos, building clear, coordinated pathways to success. Workforce Pell is one of the most powerful tools that we can see that would help us with this effort.”
Thurber envisions the program’s expansion across all Nebraska community colleges, tribal colleges, and four-year institutions. “What’s been missing in Nebraska is truly making sure that we’re connecting education to workforce,” she stated. “That’s what will make this program successful.”
