I'm considering a non-traditional career path and looking into trades, which is pretty exciting but also a bit daunting. I know there are scholarships specifically for women who want to go into trades like plumbing, carpentry, etc., but I haven't been able to find a comprehensive list. If anyone knows of scholarships or organizations that support women in trades, I'd love some guidance. It would really help me out with planning financially for training or school.
There's certainly an increasing emphasis on diversity in the trades, and it's fantastic you're considering this path. There are several scholarships designed specifically for women pursuing careers in skilled trades. I'll try to list a few for you:
1. The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) provides scholarships for women pursuing an education in construction-related programs. The application window typically opens in Spring.
2. The Women in Skilled Trades Scholarship Program (WIST) by the American Association of University Women provides financial aid for women seeking education or certification in a skilled trade.
3. The Tradeswomen, Inc. "Tools and Boots" Scholarship provides financial assistance to women entering pre-apprenticeship programs, trades training programs, or apprenticeship programs.
4. The Rosie's Girls Program, operated by Vermont Works for Women, offers a number of scholarships for women willing to learn skills in non-traditional trades.
5. The Society of Women Engineers (SWE) also offers scholarships for women pursuing ABET-accredited programs in the trades, including engineering, computing, or technology.
6. Another one to consider is the Women in HVACR Scholarship, which provides financial aid for women pursuing licensed vocational study, an associate's degree, or a bachelor's degree in HVACR.
Remember to fulfill all the requirements specified by the organizations and apply before the deadlines. You should also reach out to local trade schools or community colleges, as they may also have scholarships available that aren't as widely publicized. Good luck on your journey into the trades!
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