Great Jobs KC awarded $3.8M+ Patterson grant to expand rural workforce training into Kansas, Missouri 

A three-year grant from the Patterson Family Foundation is expected to help Great Jobs KC bring life-changing training and wraparound support services to workers in rural counties on both sides of the state line, said Earl Martin Phalen.

Earl Martin Phalen, CEO of Great Jobs KC

The $3,845,500 investment will allow Great Jobs KC to expand its tuition-free skills training and one-to-one support model beyond the Kansas City metropolitan area and into Ford County, Kansas, and Nodaway County, Missouri, explained Phalen, CEO of Great Jobs KC.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Patterson Family Foundation for their belief in our mission and their commitment to rural prosperity,” he continued. “A great job shouldn’t depend on your zip code.”

The expansion marks a major milestone in Great Jobs KC’s mission to help 50,000 residents secure family-sustaining careers by 2032, Phalen said. By moving into these rural regions, the organization will provide adults with access to high-demand technical training in fields such as healthcare, manufacturing, construction, and CDL; industries that are vital to the economic health of rural communities.

A CDL scholar from Great Jobs KC works under the hood of a cement mixer; courtesy photo

The Patterson Family Foundation supports rural-focused efforts linked to education, healthcare, and economic opportunity.

“We know that thriving rural communities are comprised of diversified industries and employment opportunities, and the work that Great Jobs is doing will bring new workforce skills to residents living in rural Kansas and western Missouri,” said Maria Flynn, president and CEO for the Patterson Family Foundation. “The Foundation looks forward to seeing the impact of Great Jobs’ work in rural communities as we work together to help rural communities thrive.”

The organizations’ partnership leverages Great Jobs KC’s expertise in removing barriers to employment — such as tuition costs, transportation, and childcare — to meet the specific labor needs of Western Kansas and Northwest Missouri, Phalen said.

The Great Jobs expansion program is expected to provide:

• Tuition-free certification: Rapid training programs in high-growth industries.
• Dedicated scholar advocates: Personalized coaching to help participants navigate training and the job search process.
• Supportive services: Access to assistance for “barrier-removal” needs like tools, uniforms, and transportation.
• Employer connections: Direct pipelines to local businesses in Dodge City (Ford County) and Maryville (Nodaway County).

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