Trades Make the World Go 'Round

$500
1 winner$500
Awarded
Application Deadline
Apr 30, 2024
Winners Announced
May 31, 2024
Education Level
High School, Undergraduate
Eligibility Requirements
Education Level:
High school, undergraduate, or trade school student
Field of Study:
Pursuing a trade program (HVAC, electrician, roofing, welding, general contractor, cosmetology, etc.)

There is a growing need for more workers in the trades, as they are vital fields that are facing shortages. 

As fields evolve, becoming a trade specialist requires additional training and schooling, which often comes at a high cost. The expense imposed by college or certification programs can deter students from lower-income families from pursuing their academic and professional goals.

This scholarship aims to support the next generation of trade specialists by reducing the financial barrier posed by education.

Any high school, undergraduate, or trade school student who will be pursuing a trade program, including HVAC, roofing, welding, cosmetology, etc., may apply for this scholarship.

To apply, tell us about yourself and why you’re pursuing a career in the trades.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Drive, Passion
Published November 2, 2023
Essay Topic

Please tell us a bit about yourself and why you are choosing the path of the trades.

250–600 words

Winners and Finalists

May 2024

Finalists
Lorenz Anderson
Abbie Strait
Nick Dang
Ava Stewart
Derek Otter
Ashley Gonzalez
Haley Rose
Smon Andebrhan
Dakota Rivers
Jamacy Daniels
michael williams
Hanna Riggs
Kelley Dennison
Joseph Jackson
Madison Woolston
Christina Hodel
Kayla Wood
Zane Hochstetler
Colton Hogue
Amanda Schwartz
Iliana Ingamells
HarLee Dykstra
Bryelle Schultz
Latayia Allen
Gregory McGinnis
Dorian Tavela
Gabriel Hernandez
ayesha williams
Steven Avalos
Amilcar Fernandez
Daniel Kish
Ciana Webb
jesus ojeda
Colson Deevers
Delfon King
Reed Redline
Stephanie Suarez
Agnes Exantus
LaToya Nelson
James Harrison
Ezequiel Martinez Lopez
Alexis Sarabia
Taylor Young
Amber Beans
Megan Kendrick
Brandon Kolic
Mariam Neyazi
Andrea Sponseller
Garret Willmarth
Jessica Baker
Jadon Uecker
Kathryn Jessup
Morianna Llapa
daniel knowles
Jasmine Guerrero
Felicia Smolinski
Olivia Smith
Marina Perales-Brady
Karri Hunt
Zachary Rasmussen
Hannah Dorsey
Olivia Thompson
Juelz Soria

Winning Application

Taeshon Vazquez
Western Technical CollegeSanta Teresa, NM
As a young adult navigating the myriad of career choices, I find myself drawn to the world of welding, a path that resonates with my passion for hands-on work. There's an indescribable satisfaction that comes from molding raw materials into something tangible and enduring. The allure of welding lies not just in the sparks that fly, but in the artistry and precision required to fuse metals together. Growing up, I was the kid who disassembled gadgets just to understand how they worked. I reveled in the feeling of crafting and fixing things with my hands. This innate curiosity evolved into a fascination with metalworking, sparking my interest in welding. The prospect of transforming mundane pieces of metal into intricate structures excites me, offering a tangible manifestation of creativity. Welding isn't merely about joining metals; it's about sculpting a vision into reality. It's about turning abstract designs into solid, functional pieces. There's an undeniable beauty in the symphony of fire and metal, where every weld represents a connection, a commitment to durability and strength. Beyond the intrinsic satisfaction, the world of trades provides a unique avenue for personal growth. It's a realm where skills are honed through hands-on experience, where mistakes are not setbacks but stepping stones to mastery. The welder's craft is an ongoing journey of refinement, pushing me to constantly improve and innovate. Choosing welding as a career isn't just a pragmatic decision; it's a reflection of my desire to contribute to the physical world around me. In a society that often leans towards digital pursuits, I find solace in the tangible nature of welding. It's a craft that leaves a mark not only on the metal but on the fabric of the world we inhabit. Moreover, the demand for skilled welders is ever-present, ensuring a stable and rewarding career path. The prospect of being an essential part of industries ranging from construction to manufacturing adds a layer of practicality to my passion. It's not just about creating; it's about contributing to the infrastructure that sustains modern life. In conclusion, my journey towards welding is an alignment of passion and practicality. It's a pursuit fueled by the joy of creation and the satisfaction of molding raw materials into something enduring. As I step onto the path of the trades, I am not just a welder; I am a craftsman shaping the world with fire and steel.

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Apr 30, 2024. Winners will be announced on May 31, 2024.