Meet LaTisha Kieso, Senior Financial Aid Representative at Pinnacle Career Institute (PCI). Learn more about how LaTisha helps students at PCI.
Meet LaTisha Kieso, Senior Financial Aid Representative at Pinnacle Career Institute (PCI). LaTisha’s role involves helping students navigate the complex world of financial aid and ensuring they have the resources needed to pursue their dreams in skilled trades. With a dedicated approach to making education accessible and affordable, LaTisha provides individualized guidance, offering students options to help fund their education in wind turbine, HVAC, and tower technician training programs.
LaTisha’s role at PCI is essential for students who may be overwhelmed by the complexities of financial aid. She explains, “We help students navigate funding their education by providing personalized guidance about financial aid options including grants, loans, scholarships, and agency funding.” From assisting students with the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to explaining eligibility, documentation requirements, and deadlines, LaTisha ensures that each student feels informed and empowered.
For LaTisha, the motivation to work in financial aid comes from seeing students achieve their goals and empowering them to access education. “Being able to empower students by helping them gain access to education that leads them to a skilled career is motivating,” she shares. The chance to make education accessible to diverse populations and contribute to students' journeys toward rewarding careers is deeply fulfilling for her.
One of the unique aspects of financial aid at PCI is how it’s tailored to trade programs. “Our Financial Aid Coordinators provide detailed information about available financial aid options for those who qualify,” LaTisha explains. PCI students benefit from a variety of financial resources, and LaTisha and her team help students understand the differences between options, allowing them to choose the best fit for their needs. Beyond the FAFSA process, LaTisha connects students with additional resources like community organizations and employer-sponsored assistance.
LaTisha works closely with students to explore every possible funding option to reduce financial stress, including federal grants, PCI-awarded scholarships, student loans, and even payment plans. For students with unique eligibility, she also provides information on vocational rehabilitation, Veteran’s Affairs benefits, and tribal education benefits. “Our goal is to help students make their education more affordable,” she emphasizes.
LaTisha takes new students through each step of the financial aid process, starting with the FAFSA. She explains how it determines eligibility for federal programs like Pell Grants and federal loans and provides a clear picture of the aid awarded. LaTisha ensures students understand each part of their funding plan, helping them complete additional requirements such as entrance counseling, so they’re fully prepared for the journey ahead.
One of LaTisha’s most rewarding challenges is answering prospective students’ questions. “They often ask about what types of financial aid are available, how to apply for scholarships, and what their out-of-pocket options are,” she says. LaTisha and her team provide support on how to apply for different types of aid, empowering students to confidently make financial decisions.
PCI’s programs attract students interested in renewable energy and technical trades, and LaTisha is enthusiastic about connecting them with program-specific scholarships. “We provide resources and encourage students to explore these options,” she notes, as these scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden for students pursuing certifications in these fields.
Throughout their time at PCI, students can count on LaTisha’s support. “We assist with award notifications, understanding repayment options, and any questions students have,” she says. Her ongoing support allows students to focus on their studies and career preparation without the added worry of financing, making their educational journey at PCI more manageable.
For students interested in programs like HVAC or wind energy but concerned about affordability, LaTisha’s advice is simple: “Reach out to us with your concerns. We can help provide personalized advice and help you identify all your funding opportunities. It never hurts to ask!”
Reflecting on financial aid's impact, LaTisha shares, “Financial aid makes it possible for students to enroll in skilled trades where training and certification can be costly. Knowing that financial support is available for those who qualify, can boost students’ confidence in their ability to succeed.” By reducing financial stress, LaTisha helps students focus on their goals, ensuring they can take full advantage of their educational opportunities.
In her role, LaTisha exemplifies PCI's commitment to its students, making skilled trade education accessible to all. Thanks to her and the Financial Aid team, more students can pursue their career ambitions with the support and resources they need to thrive.