The Boeing Company has awarded a $250,000 grant to support the expansion of the Renton Promise program, enabling more Renton students to continue their education at Renton Technical College.

Renton Promise offers up to full tuition coverage to graduates of Renton high schools attending RTC, regardless of GPA, income level, or country of birth.

“Boeing is proud to support Renton Promise and its commitment to ensuring Renton students have the opportunities they deserve,” said Bill McSherry, Boeing vice president of Government Operations. “Our grant will help local high school graduates gain the skills they need for rewarding careers at Boeing and other community employers. This partnership with Renton Technical College, the Renton School District, and the City of Renton will empower more students to build bright futures.”

Boeing is the first private-sector partner and the largest contributor to date supporting Renton Promise. This $250,000 grant is the largest gift Boeing has made to the RTC Foundation. Additionally, Boeing sponsors scholarships and employs many RTC graduates.

“Renton Promise creates a seamless pathway for students,” said RTC President Yoshiko Harden. “This grant will help us advance our vision of transformation through learning. It is an investment in Renton high school graduates, their futures, and in building a stronger, skilled workforce in our region.”

Renton Promise began with 2024 graduates through a $200,000 proviso spearheaded by Rep. Steve Bergquist. The program continues to grow, supported by partnerships with the City of Renton, which committed $200,000, and the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship (WSOS).

“This gift demonstrates the powerful collaboration among the Washington State Opportunity Scholarship, the City of Renton, Renton School District, Renton Technical College, and businesses like Boeing to provide educational opportunities from high school through college to living-wage, viable careers,” Harden said. “We are deeply grateful for this partnership with Boeing.”

To date, more than 160 Renton Promise scholars have benefited from the program, pursuing career training and transfer degrees. Many students say they would not have been able to enroll in college without the program's financial support and wraparound services.

“I wouldn’t be where I am today, receiving the best education from instructors who are both helpful and highly experienced in their fields, without Renton Promise,” said Mason Nelson, a welding student.