The Renton Technical College Foundation awarded 16 scholarships totaling $12,600 to students this fall.

RTC specializes in work retraining programs, which are in high demand from the tough economy.

With a high demand for education, finding scholarship money is difficult.

However, RTC student Cynthia Lyle found help through a foundation scholarship.

Lyle, a single mother with two sons and two grandsons, moved from Michigan two years ago to get a new start.

After working dead-end jobs, she decided to train for a career. Because of her background in administrative work and her ability to interact with people, the Administrative Office Management program was a natural fit for her.

Lyle applied for and received the Rose Turner Scholarship, which enables her to pay for her books to finish her last quarter at RTC.

“The Renton and surrounding communities play a big part by supporting students,” said Lyle. “Without their support, there would be no scholarships, students would fall by the wayside and not be able to complete their program. I am glad the foundation had the faith in me and is helping me work towards my goal.”

Another student who received a scholarship is Daryoush Nazari, studying land survey, who received the Dave Esler scholarship.

After becoming a U.S. citizen in June 2009, Daryoush has hopes to work with the Department of Natural Resources.

“In order to be competitive, I came to Renton Technical College,” Nazari said. “I work part-time for living expenses and this scholarship helped to pay my tuition so I can finish my schooling.”

The RTC Foundation has been building scholarship funds since 1993. To learn more about the RTC Foundation and scholarships, visit www.RTC.edu/Foundation