COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa — Iowa Western Community College has announced the creation of the new Gregg “Bud” Cohrs Construction and Trades Scholarship, a financial opportunity aimed at supporting students pursuing careers in construction, carpentry, electrical work, HVAC, and other skilled trades.
The scholarship honors the legacy of Gregg “Bud” Cohrs, a well-known advocate for trades education and workforce development in Iowa’s construction sector. Designed to reduce financial barriers for students entering high-demand industries, the scholarship will be awarded to individuals who demonstrate commitment to building careers in technical fields critical to the region’s growth.
College officials say the scholarship comes at a time when local employers are urgently seeking talent across the trades as retirements rise and major infrastructure and development projects continue statewide.
Iowa Western leaders highlighted their goals earlier this year during the Education Is Everyone’s Business luncheon at the Mid-America Center, where keynote speakers emphasized the value of scholarship support for technical and workforce programs. During the event, keynote speaker Maria Sotuyo underscored the impact that targeted aid can have, noting the importance of the STARS Scholarship and similar initiatives that give students clear pathways into meaningful careers.
While additional details about eligibility, award amounts, and application deadlines will be released soon, the college says the scholarship will help expand access for first-generation students, young apprentices, and adult learners transitioning into the trades workforce.
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The new scholarship aligns with Iowa Western’s broader mission of strengthening the region’s skilled workforce pipeline. Local construction companies and trade partners have voiced strong support for the initiative, citing increased demand for trained professionals who can move quickly into jobs providing competitive wages and long-term career advancement.
Officials believe the scholarship can also complement Iowa’s investment in local apprenticeship programs, community workforce partnerships, and career-focused learning opportunities for high school students.
Though the college has not released direct quotes on the scholarship’s announcement, the naming honors Cohrs’ longstanding contributions to labor development, reflecting his belief in helping the next generation “build a future they can be proud of.”
More information on how to apply and how donors can contribute to the fund will be shared as Iowa Western prepares for upcoming enrollment cycles.
Originally reported by Scott Stewart in Non Paraile Online.
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