MELROSE PARK, Ill. (NewsNation) — Amid an escalating feud with Harvard University, President Donald Trump is suggesting diverting any remaining federal grant money from the Ivy League school to trade schools across the United States.
In a post Monday on Truth Social, Trump wrote, “I’m considering taking Three Billion Dollars of Grant Money away from a very antisemetic Harvard, and giving it to TRADE SCHOOLS all across our land. What a great investment that would be for the USA, and so badly needed!!!”
Trump has recently criticized Harvard for what he claims is fostering antisemitic rhetoric on campus and for admitting too many international students over Americans.
While it remains unclear whether Trump will follow through on the proposal, the suggestion may reignite interest in vocational education.
20% of post-secondary education funding goes to trades
Trade schools, which offer training in high-demand fields such as HVAC, construction, electrical engineering and plumbing, serve as a pathway for students who may not have the means or interest to pursue a four-year degree.
However, there is a major funding gap when it comes to federal funding.
The U.S. government spends around $140 billion on post-secondary education, but only $28 billion, roughly 20%, goes to trade schools, according to the Associated General Contractors of America.
A lot of guys need this opportunity: Trade school director
At RR Trade School, for example, students undergo a six-month training program to become job-ready in HVAC systems.
Director Chris Martinez said that additional funding would enable him to expand the classrooms and serve more students.
“A lot of guys, men and women, need this opportunity. Especially a lot of young people fresh out of high school, they do need this opportunity,” Martinez said. “They come in here confused, not knowing what they want to do with their lives. They come here and get the confidence and they’re very grateful at the end of the day. Now they’re able to provide for their family.”
Vocational programs often take just one to three years to complete and typically cost only 25% of the cost of a traditional college education.