For Lawson State manufacturing technology student Latoya Gaines, learning how to solve
complex technical problems is part of a larger goal: using her education to build
safer, stronger communities. Her commitment to that vision has earned her national
recognition as a 2026 Chime Workforce Scholar, one of 200 students nationwide selected
for their academic achievement and pursuit of career-focused education.
"I enjoy learning new skills and figuring out how to fix challenging projects," said Latoya, who is developing skills in mechatronics and automation. "I also enjoy volunteering and helping communities whenever I am needed. My dream is to continue my education in engineering and learn how to design and build projects that can strengthen the economy, improve safety, and make a positive difference in people's lives."
The Chime Workforce Scholarship, funded by the Chime Scholars Foundation and administered by the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation, provides scholars with $1,000 to help cover educational expenses while completing a certificate or associate degree that prepares them to enter the workforce in a high-demand field. Ultimately, the hope is that by helping students complete their education and earn workforce credentials, the program can contribute toward a stronger pipeline of skilled workers in fields where they are needed most.
"At the Chime Scholars Foundation, we believe that career and technical education opens doors to financial progress and long-term opportunity," said Jeni Izuel, president of the Chime Scholars Foundation. "We're proud to support students who are working hard to gain in-demand skills and build better futures for themselves and their families."
Amanda Karpinski Gorman, executive director of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation, said her organization—known for attracting highly talented students—is thrilled with the opportunity to support them with additional funds.
"These scholarships support students pursuing career and technical education at two-year colleges, and we look forward to seeing all they go on to accomplish," she said.
Lawson State alum and mechatronics instructor Alison Bush describes Latoya as a student whose curiosity and willingness to work hard are sure to propel her success.
"Latoya is never afraid to ask questions when she does not understand something. She wants more than just to complete an assignment—she wants to truly understand what she is learning and how she can apply it," said Ms. Bush. "She often talks with me about her future and her plans to continue her education in engineering, and it is clear that she is thinking seriously about where her education can take her. She has an ability to think beyond the classroom."
According to Ms. Bush, Latoya is full of new ideas, particularly when it comes to improving safety and finding ways to prevent accidents before they happen. "Latoya does not simply think about passing her classes; she thinks about how she can use the knowledge and skills she is gaining to make workplaces safer and more efficient," she said.
Chime (Nasdaq: CHYM) is a financial technology company founded on the premise that core banking services should be helpful, easy, and free. The company offers a broad range of low-cost banking, payments, lending, and investing products that address the most critical financial needs of everyday people. Its member-aligned business model has helped millions of people to unlock financial progress. Funds in Chime deposit accounts are FDIC-insured through The Bancorp Bank, N.A. or Stride Bank, N.A., Members FDIC, up to applicable limits*.
