Front-line workers can apply to attend Northwestern Michigan College free of charge starting in January through the Futures for Frontliners program unveiled Thursday by Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Futures for Frontliners is open to Michiganders who worked in essential industries during the April 1-June 30 period and do not have a college degree. The program offers free tuition for workers to attend a local community college. Workers can pursue an associate degree or a skills certificate on a full-time or part-time basis while they continue to work. 

Those without a high school diploma or equivalency are eligible for services to help them prepare for and complete this credential and go on to a community college or job training program. The application period runs through December 31, with enrollment available beginning in January 2021. Essential industries include health care, financial services, food and agriculture, law enforcement and first responders, water and wastewater, transportation. and more.

“Providing these front-line workers in essential industries with access to tuition-free community college – even if they don’t have a high school diploma or equivalency – to pursue their career and personal dreams is a wonderful way to say ‘thank you’ – they certainly earned it,” said NMC President Nick Nissley in a statement.

To apply and learn more about Futures for Frontliners, click here.