Fine Homebuilding Keep Craft Alive Scholarship

Geographic Scope: Nationwide (United States)

Focus Areas: Construction-related fields and skilled trades

This scholarship program was established in partnership with Fine Homebuilding to address the skills gap in the residential construction and remodeling industry. The program aims to support students pursuing careers in construction trades and related fields.

Eligibility:

• Current SkillsUSA members
• SkillsUSA alumni association members
• Students studying in construction-related fields
• Students with a passion for their craft
• Students planning to pursue continued education including:
  • Community college programs
  • Undergraduate programs
  • Industry certifications

Award Details:

• Number of Awards: 5 scholarships
• Amount per Award: $5,000
• Total Program Funding: $25,000 annually for 2017-18 academic year

About the Partner: Fine Homebuilding is the most trusted and authoritative resource for the residential construction and remodeling industry. The publication launched the #KeepCraftAlive campaign to help close the skills gap by raising awareness of skills training and educational opportunities and funding student scholarships.

Contact Information:

• Website: www.finehomebuilding.com
• Program information: www.finehomebuilding.com/2016/12/27/help-keep-craft-alive
• SkillsUSA: skillsusa.org

Background: This partnership addresses the significant disparity between the employment demands of a growing housing industry and the shortage of trained, qualified labor. The construction industry faces a critical skills gap that is impacting home building across the country.

Application Process

Application Components:

1. Application Form - Complete the scholarship application
2. Essay - Submit a 300-word essay (topic not specified in available materials)
3. Letter of Support - Obtain a letter of support from one of the following:
   • Teacher
   • School administrator
   • SkillsUSA advisor
   • Educational/professional mentor

Selection Criteria:

• Completion of application
• Quality of 300-word essay
• Quality of letter of support

Award Announcement:

• Winners are acknowledged at a special reception during the Annual National Leadership and Skills Conference (June 22, 2017 event was held in Louisville, Kentucky at the Kentucky Exposition Center)

Submission Details:

• Application materials must be submitted (specific submission method and deadline not provided in available materials)