LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) — Companies from Hebron and Omaha are the newest recipients of a Nebraska state grant program that connects young people to careers in manufacturing and technology.

Gov. Pete Ricketts announced Monday that state officials have selected MetalQuest of Hebron and Distefano Technology & Manufacturing of Omaha. The companies will participate in the Nebraska Developing Youth Talent Initiative, a program proposed by Ricketts last year to foster partnerships between private industry and public schools.

MetalQuest is working with the South Central Unified School District to offer a career pathway program for students with a focus on manufacturing.