WASHINGTON, D.C.-U.S. Senators Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ) and Robert Menendez (D-NJ) today announced a $55,000 federal grant to Rutgers University's Summer Transportation Institute through the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)Office of Civil Rights.Rutgers' program is a part of the National Summer Transportation Institute (NSTI) program,an effort to promote a strong and diverse workforce in thetransportationindustry.

"Thanks to programs like Rutgers' NSTI, young New Jerseyans are developing skills that will set them up to pursue careers in transportation, engineering and related fields,"said Senator Menendez. "I applaud the DOT for making an investment in this innovative program which will surely pay dividends by fostering a workforce that improves our infrastructure and helps our State compete in a global, 21st century economy."

"This federal funding will help opendoorstogoodtransportationjobsfor many of our mostdisadvantagedyoung people,"said Senator Lautenberg. "Rutgers' programgivesstudents new avenues for future training and work, and plays a critical role in developing tomorrow's transportation workforce.We'll continue working hard to ensure New Jersey's studentshavetheopportunitiesto reach their potential and build the skills they'll need to thrive."

The NSTIsummerprogram is typically two to four weeks in length.The program promotes awareness of educational and career opportunities amongdisadvantagedand at-risk middle and high school students.Colleges anduniversitiesthat host programsconduct both residential and non-residential programs.Recruitment and registration is coordinated and managed by each local host site. Participation in the NSTI is free for students who have an interest in learning more about the transportation industry, its various modes (e.g., highways, aviation, transit and maritime) and how thestudentsmight pursue post-secondary educationor career opportunitiesconcentrating on some aspect of transportation.

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