Those looking to get into electrical work as a profession but need some extra help paying for school are in luck.

The Community Action Partnership of Mercery County (CAPMC), in partnership with Laurel Technical Institute, is offering up to $7,500 in grants for eligible students.

"Electricians are in demand now more than ever," said Justin Caldwell, Laurel's director of trades. "We live in a world where demand for blue collar jobs is growing, so the need for training is higher. This opportunity is a great way to offer education to eligible students in an area where jobs are available."

Grants will be used to reduce tuition debt, according to a news release from CAPMC.

Laurel Technical Institute's 16-month program provides electrical training, apprenticeships and job placement through employer partnerships related to improving the habitability and performance of homes.

"We need to share interest and retention of not only college students but those in the trades to grow and stay in Mercer County," said Wilma Torres, the CEO of CAPMC. "These talents are often forgotten but they prove to be a part of the foundation of a city or a county's existence."

This is part of a two-pronged program aimed at improving the quality of living for people in Mercer County.

In addition to workforce development, the organization is also offering repairs to up to 300 qualified homeowners. So far, 180 applications have been submitted.

Eligible homeowners can get up to $50,000 in repairs to the homes, which must bring the property up to standards and correct and existing deficiencies or hazards.