The board of directors of the Clifford H. “Ted” Rees, Jr., Scholarship Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation of the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI), has announced a partnership with SkillsUSA, expanding the long-standing scholarship program designed for students pursuing a career in the HVACR and water heating industry. With more than 365,000 members nationwide, SkillsUSA is a partnership of students, teachers, and industry working together to ensure a skilled American workforce.

“The Rees Scholarship Program exists to ensure that qualified, knowledgeable technicians are available to support the industry,” said AHRI President and CEO Stephen Yurek. “Our partners at SkillsUSA share the same interest in supporting a skilled technical workforce, and we are honored that we can now offer even more scholarships to deserving students, thanks to this new partnership.”

“SkillsUSA is thrilled to partner with AHRI and the Rees Scholarship Foundation to support building a pipeline of students who are continuing their education toward meaningful and lucrative careers in the HVACR industry,” said SkillsUSA Executive Director Chelle Travis. “This scholarship will benefit students, their schools, and future employers, and reinforces the value of SkillsUSA membership in creating new opportunities for students.”

The Clifford H. “Ted” Rees, Jr., Scholarship Foundation SkillsUSA Scholarship will include eight one-time, merit-based $2,500 scholarships to SkillsUSA students pursuing postsecondary career training in the HVACR industry, beginning this spring. Details on donating to the Rees Scholarship are available at www.ReesScholarship.org. The foundation provides special recognition to donors at a variety of giving levels.