BEACHWOOD, Ohio — Completing a degree while working full-time can be difficult as individuals worry about how to get to campus for class or —  more importantly —  how to pay for coursework.

The University of Akron (UA) and WTI (Weatherproofing Technologies Inc., a subsidiary of Tremco Inc.) are proud to announce RISE (Roofing Individuals Succeed through Education), an exclusive educational partnership that brings new opportunities to WTI employees and their families and takes the worry out of college.

Under the new partnership, WTI employees can enroll in an online, step-up, associate-to-bachelor’s degree program in construction management from UA’s College of Applied Science and Technology. The company pays 100 percent of the tuition for WTI employees and their dependents; coursework can be completed on a full- or part-time schedule.

Students begin in the Associate of Science in Construction Management track and have the option to continue to complete the Bachelor of Organizational Supervision in Construction Management. The associate’s degree is perfectly aligned with the first two years of the bachelor’s degree, so students who elect to continue their education can flow seamlessly into the bachelor’s degree option. Employees are eligible to apply for the program after 90 days of employment. Enrollment can start in the spring, summer or fall semesters, making it more convenient.

RISE is a continuation of a strong educational partnership between Tremco and UA, with UA providing assistance to employees in GED preparation and with building and delivering apprenticeship curriculum. Coursework for the associate’s and bachelor’s degree programs is taught by instructors who understand the construction business.

For more information, visit www.wtirise.com or the Career Center at www.tremcoinc.com.