Midlands Tech Student Wins Chime Workforce Scholarship
Joseph Neubaum receives a $1,000 grant for his academic achievements at the local college.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Scholarships

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Midlands Technical College student Joseph Neubaum has been named a 2026 Chime Workforce Scholar. He is one of 200 students nationwide selected for the award, which provides $1,000 for educational expenses.
Why it matters
The program recognizes students for their academic achievement and dedication to pursuing career-focused training in high-demand fields. This financial support helps scholars successfully complete their associate degrees or professional certificates.
The Chime Workforce Scholarship provides $1,000 to each of the 200 selected students nationwide. Recipient Joseph Neubaum maintains a 4.0 GPA at Midlands Technical College.
The players
Joseph Neubaum
He is a student at Midlands Technical College currently working toward a career as a licensed electrical contractor.
Chime Scholars Foundation
This organization acts as the primary funding source for the national workforce scholarship program.
Phi Theta Kappa Foundation
This international honor society foundation manages the administration of scholarship awards for community college students.
The details
Neubaum, who is a member of Phi Theta Kappa, was also recognized for the 2026 South Carolina All-State Academic Team. The funds are provided by the Chime Scholars Foundation and administered by the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation to help cover the costs of his education as he pursues a career as a licensed electrical contractor.
Timeline
Joseph Neubaum was named a Chime Workforce Scholar in 2026.
Culture Shift
The award follows a pattern set by the Phi Theta Kappa All-State Academic Team program by highlighting high-performing community college students. This trend emphasizes the growing societal focus on supporting vocational and technical education pathways.
Students pursuing certificate or associate degree programs at local colleges can look for similar financial aid opportunities administered by the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation. These scholarships help lower the out-of-pocket costs for required educational materials and tuition.
The takeaway
Students with high academic standing should actively research professional scholarship programs that align with their specific career fields. These awards often provide crucial financial backing for vocational training and degree completion.
Further reading
Find more information on local financial aid opportunities on the Columbia Scholarships page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Columbia Star - Columbia's locally owned weekly newspaper since 1963.
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