Program will support community college students interested in engineering

A new program will support community college students in Virginia who want to work toward earning a degree in engineering.

The A. James Clark Engineering Transfer Pipeline Program is a project of the A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation and the Virginia Foundation for Community College Education, aimed at broadening participation in engineering for minority, low-income, and first-generation students.

A. James Clark, a Richmond native and founder of Clark Enterprises, was a 1950 graduate of the University of Maryland. His A. James Clark Engineering Scholars Program supports more than 500 students at 11 colleges and universities, including his alma mater, the University of Virginia and Virginia Tech.

The A. James Clark Engineering Transfer Pipeline Program is dedicated to improving the transfer pathway for students. Recognizing that many students face challenges in fundamental courses and struggle to complete their first year, the program offers essential support to enhance student preparedness and success.

Students in the program will receive comprehensive support, including coaching from Artis Gordon, who was recently hired as the A. James Clark Engineering Transfer Pipeline Coordinator.

Gordon will assist engineering students in making the transition from community college to university while balancing their classes, work, and family responsibilities.

Research indicates that effective advising and support services are crucial for student success in completing credentials or transferring to four-year institutions, especially for underserved groups like students of color, low-income, and first-generation students. These services, including tutoring and financial aid, help students overcome barriers and support diversity in engineering by encouraging traditionally underserved students to pursue the field.

Eligible students must be enrolled in a full-time engineering curriculum and participate in community service. Candidates will be selected after completing their first semester at the community college level based on faculty recommendations and application completion.

To remain in the program, students must maintain a 3.0 GPA each semester and be Pell-eligible to receive financial assistance.

For more information about the A. James Clark Engineering Transfer Pipeline Program, visit vfcce.org/our-priorities/engineering or contact Artis Gordon, A. James Clark Engineering Transfer Coordinator, [email protected].