ABC of Wisconsin Apprenticeship Scholarship

Funder: Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Wisconsin's Apprenticeship and Training Trust

Geographic Scope: Wisconsin

Overview:
Annual scholarship program supporting apprentices in skilled trades. The program was first announced in May 2024 with initial awards of $1,000 each. By 2024-25, 15 apprentices received awards; in 2025-26, 11 apprentices received awards.

Eligibility

• Target: Apprentices in ABC of Wisconsin's apprenticeship program
• Trade Focus: All skilled trades including plumbing, HVAC, electrical, carpentry, and additional trades
• Program Status: Must be currently enrolled in ABC of Wisconsin apprenticeship program
• Employment: Must be employed by an ABC member company
• Training Phase: Apprentices still in their paid related instruction phase of training are eligible to apply

Award Details

• Amount: $1,000 per scholarship
• Number of Awards: Variable (10-15 scholarships awarded annually based on year)
• Use of Funds: To assist with costs associated with tools, instruction at technical schools, and related training needs

Application Requirements

• Two short essays detailing:
  • Interest in the trades
  • Importance of the scholarship
• References from both:
  • An employer
  • An instructor
• Selection based on: character, work ethic, and commitment to the trades

Funding

• Funded by ABC member companies and donors
• Donations are tax-deductible

Background

• First announced May 22, 2024
• Over 2,600 apprentices currently training in ABC of Wisconsin program
• Nearly 2,500 apprentices trained as of September 2024
• Each apprentice is employed by an ABC member and paid while training
• Almost 150 apprentices applied in 2024-25
• 350 apprentices graduated in 2025 (record number)
• 679 newly enrolled apprentices in 2025

Application Process

1. Eligibility Check: Confirm you are an apprentice in ABC of Wisconsin's apprenticeship program currently in the paid related instruction phase
2. Gather References:
   • Obtain reference from your employer
   • Obtain reference from your instructor
3. Write Essays: Complete two short essays:
   • Essay 1: Your interest in the skilled trades
   • Essay 2: The importance of this scholarship to you
4. Submit Application: Submit essays and references
   • Format: Not specified in available materials
   • Method: Not specified in available materials
5. Selection: Applications reviewed by committee; recipients selected based on character, work ethic, and commitment to the trades

Required Materials

• Employer reference
• Instructor reference
• Two short essays (topics specified above)

Timeline

• Annual application cycle
• Applications reviewed and winners announced (typically announced in August-September for following school year)