The SOWELA Foundation recently received a $200,000 investment from Commonwealth LNG to establish multiple scholarship funds for students in Chemical Laboratory, Industrial Electrical, Industrial Instrumentation, Process Technology and HVAC training.
“SOWELA has worked very tirelessly to become the premiere workforce provider in the SWLA region. Our success is evidenced by the support we received from our business/industry partners,” said SOWELA Chancellor Dr. Neil Aspinwall. “This investment by Commonwealth LNG will help our students complete their programs of study and earn the credentials they need to successfully obtain high skill, high wage and high demand jobs in the regional industries. We are fortunate to have business partners such as Commonwealth LNG put their trust in our workforce development capabilities.”
With a goal of improving access to higher education opportunities in the region, Commonwealth LNG’s contribution includes $80,000 to HVAC scholarships and $120,000 to industrial technology scholarships, including a $100,000 endowment.
“Our company is committed to educational investments that target developing skills needed for the evolving energy sector,” said Commonwealth LNG President and CEO Farhad Ahrabi. “We’re proud to support SOWELA’s initiatives in ensuring long-term economic benefits for southwestern Louisiana, and in developing the future leaders of the industry.”
Each program helps students gain the necessary skills to be successful in industry-related occupations. Faculty members engage students with hands-on assignments and cutting-edge technology to help foster an effective learning environment. SOWELA’s programs prepare students for high-demand, high-wage careers.
SOWELA offers a variety of financial aid and scholarship opportunities to those who qualify. The SOWELA Foundation scholarship application is available at www.sowela.edu/scholarships. Students must submit this application to be considered for Commonwealth LNG scholarships, and a minimum 2.5 GPA is required.
The College is accepting applications, and Summer and Fall 2025 registration is open. For more information, visit www.sowela.edu/apply or contact onestop@sowela.edu to schedule a tour.
About SOWELA Technical Community College:
SOWELA Technical Community College offers dynamic instruction and practical learning opportunities that prepare students to seamlessly transfer or to excel in today’s workforce. For more information, visit www.sowela.edu.
About Commonwealth LNG:
Commonwealth LNG is a 9.5 mtpa LNG export terminal project located on the Calcasieu River on the Gulf Coast near Cameron, Louisiana. The project’s leadership team is committed to building and operating a world-class LNG facility by working in harmony with the community, always cognizant of their needs.