LLCC has received a gift from the O’Shea family to fund a scholarship for LLCC students in the construction trades program.

The first recipient of the O’Shea Family Scholarship is Alexis Bowman of Palmyra, a 2024 graduate of North Mac High School. “The O’Shea Family Scholarship has opened the door for more opportunities and relationships in the area of construction management,” said Bowman. “I plan for this scholarship to lead me to my goal of a leadership role in the construction industry.”

Led by Beth and Mike O’Shea, long-time supporters of education and students at LLCC, the O’Shea family has established a scholarship for students pursuing a two-year construction management degree in the Workforce Institute at LLCC.

This fund is being established to help ensure that the cost of education is not a barrier for students who are interested in a career in construction. Scholarships are being provided for students seeking an associate in applied science degree in construction management. If funds are available after supporting these students, scholarships may also be available to those pursuing a degree in education or engineering.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security projects an 8.5% growth in the construction trades over the next 10 years (2020-2030). A report by the Associated Builders and Contractors estimates there is a need for 500,000 workers on top of current hiring. “The shortage is due to retirements and fewer young people entering the skills trades,” explained Chris Edmonds, program director, construction trades at LLCC. “With the anticipated demand in the industry, it is important to note there is also currently a shortage of skilled construction workers.”

“As a teacher at Lincoln Land Community College, I have witnessed firsthand how our new construction management program is transforming careers,” said Matt O’Shea. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see our students seize this opportunity and lay a solid foundation for their future success in the construction industry.”

“We are grateful for the incredible generosity of the O’Shea family in supporting and providing opportunities for LLCC students,” said Karen Sanders, executive director, LLCC Foundation, and vice president, advancement. “This major gift will support many students as they train to enter the high-demand career field of construction and impact the local workforce, as employers hire our work-ready graduates.”