The Shelton Legacy Foundation for Trades Scholarship Program exists to remove financial barriers for individuals pursing education and training in the skilled trades. Our goal is to empower students with the resources they need to enter the workforce, achieve self-sufficiency, and strengthen their communities.

Purpose

Shelton Legacy Foundation for Trades exists to create opportunities for individuals pursuing careers in the skilled trades by providing scholarships, mentorship, and resources that foster personal growth, economic independence, and community impact.

Mission Statement

We envision a future where every aspiring trade professional has access to education, training, and support that empowers them to thrive, strengthen their communities, and build lasting legacies through their work.

Vision Statement

  • Be a high school senior, recent graduate, or adult learner pursuing certification, apprenticeship, or enrollment in a trade or vocational program.

  • Demonstrate financial need.

  • Show commitment to a career in the skilled trades (e.g., welding, construction, plumbing, HVAC, cosmetology, electrical work, auto mechanics, etc.)

  • Reside in the United States of America (priority given to Texas applicants; other state residents may be considered as funding expands).

Eligibility Criteria

  • Awards typically range from $500-$2,000 depending on available funding.

  • Funds may be applied toward:

    • Tuition and fees for accreditied trade or vocational programs.

    • Required tools, uniforms, or equipment.

    • Certification and licensing exam costs.

Scholarship Awards

  1. Submit Application (online or paper form). Must include:

  • Completed application form.

  • Proof of enrollment or acceptance in a trade/vocational program.

  • One recommendation letter (teacher, employer, or mentor).

  • Short personal essay (500+ words) describing career goals and commitment to the trade industry.

2. Review Process

  • Applications are reviewed by the Scholarship Committee, appointed by the Board of Directors.

  • Selection is based on financial need, commitment to a trade career, and essay responses.

3. Notification & Disbursement

  • Recipients will be notified in writing.

  • Funds will be distributed directly to the trade school, training program, or vendor (for tools/equipment).

Application Process

  • Use scholarship funds exclusively for approved educational or trade-related expenses.

  • Provide a brief follow-up statement within 12 months describing program progress or employment outcomes.

  • Be open to sharing their story (with permission) as part of the Shelton Legacy Foundation for Trades outreach and community impact reporting.

Expectations of Recipients

The Shelton Legacy Foundation for Trades does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation. We are committed to equity and inclusion in advancing opportunities in the skilled trades.

Commitment to Equity

Why give?

  • ✽

    You’ll help Texans gain life-changing skills in trades like welding, plumbing, electrical work, and more—careers that provide stability and pride.

  • ✽

    Your gift breaks financial barriers for students and adult learners who cannot afford tuition, tools, or certification exams.

  • ✽

    Every dollar makes an immediate impact, with scholarships ranging from $500 to $2,000 directly funding education and training.

  • ✽

    You’ll strengthen the Texas workforce, supporting industries facing critical shortages of skilled professionals.

  • ✽

    Your support builds equity and opportunity, offering a pathway to success for those who might otherwise be overlooked.

  • ✽

    Together, we create lasting legacies, ensuring individuals can invest in themselves, provide for their families, and contribute to stronger communities.

Make a donation

“Your Gift Builds a Legacy of Opportunity.”

3% Cover the Fee

 FAQs

  • Applicants may apply if they are currently enrolled or have an official acceptance letter from a trade/vocational program.

  • Scholarships are open to both youth and adults. Many adult learners return to school to learn a trade, and they are welcome to apply as long as they meet residency and financial need requirements.

  • The list of trades is not exhaustive. If the program is a legitimate trade/vocational certification (for example: veterinary technician, medical coding, solar installation), applicants are encouraged to apply.

  • Yes. Applicants should demonstrate financial need. This doesn’t always mean low income only — it may also mean they don’t have access to other scholarships or support.

  • All applications are reviewed by our Scholarship Committee, made up of board members and community representatives. Recipients are selected based on financial need, career commitment, and the quality of their personal essay. We are committed to fairness, equity, and supporting individuals with a genuine passion for pursuing skilled trade careers.

  • There are several ways to help! You can make a tax-deductible donation online, sponsor a scholarship in your name or business’s name, or partner with us as a mentor or industry supporter. Every contribution—whether financial or through volunteering—helps us provide Texans with the tools, training, and opportunities they need to succeed in the trades.