The Mike Rowe Scholarship: Opportunities for Skilled Trades Education

The Mike Rowe Scholarship is for graduating high school seniors, graduates, and GED recipients who want to pursue a professional certification or associate degree in a trade-related program. Students that have a strong work ethic, recognize personal responsibility, and have a good attitude are encouraged to apply.

Trade school could be the best option for certain students. Students can continue their education and build a better future for themselves by learning an in-demand trade instead of enrolling in a four-year institution. Vocational and trade schools, which differ from traditional classroom settings, are devoted to teaching students how to become highly skilled professionals in a particular field. Vo-Tech programs, as they are also known, allow students to gain practical experience in as little as two years.

About the Mike Rowe Scholarship

According to MikeRoweWorks.org, the Mike Rowe WORKS Foundation is awarding a total of one million dollars in scholarships for the 2025–2026 scholarship year in order to “recognize students that understand the importance of work ethic, personal responsibility, delayed gratification, and a positive attitude”.

There are differences in the quantity and value of prizes for 2025. The value and total number of awards will be decided by the scholarship committee. The money given to scholarship recipients can be used for tuition, books, and tools.

There is no renewal for the Work Ethic Scholarship Program. However, if they disclose their prior winnings, submit a new scholarship application, and fulfill the requirements, previous scholarship recipients are eligible to reapply.

The Purpose of the Scholarship

Focus: The scholarship is intended for people who want to work in skilled trades like welding, plumbing, or electrical work.

Goal: It seeks to eliminate the skills gap and dispel the myths surrounding vocational occupations.

Eligibility of the Mike Rowe Scholarship

• must be enrolled in an authorized trade program or intend to enroll in one.
• The S.W.E.A.T. Pledge (Skills & Work Ethic Aren’t Taboo) must be accepted and adhered to.
• must exhibit a strong work ethic and dedication to a career in a skilled trade.

Requirements for the Mike Rowe Scholarship

• American citizen.
• Senior in high school, recent graduate, or GED holder
• pursuing an associate’s degree or professional certification in a trade-related subject in the United States.
• Have a positive outlook, a strong work ethic, and an awareness of personal accountability.
• Show that you are in need of money.

How to Apply

• Enroll in a skilled trades-focused program that has been approved.
• Adhere to the principles of the S.W.E.A.T. Pledge by signing it.
• Write responses to four S.W.E.A.T. Pledge-related questions.
• Make a film showcasing your identity and the reasons you should be awarded the scholarship, then submit it.
• Get two recommendations from a manager, supervisor, or instructor.
• Verify the tuition and fees for your institution.
• Send in a copy of your transcript from college or high school.
• Your most current 1040 tax form should be uploaded.
• Fill out the entire application and send it in before 11:59 PM on April 17. PT

This scholarship can assist pay for your training and set you on the way to a fulfilling job if you’re prepared to put in the effort and use your hands to create a better future. There are a few requirements to meet, but that’s part of the appeal—this program is for those who don’t back down from a challenge. Apply now and prove you’ve got what it takes.

Scholarship Reward

• Scholarships totaling $2.5 million are offered.
• supports authorized programs and skilled trade training.
• Made for diligent people who are the epitome of commitment and accountability
• Supported by the Mike Rowe Works Foundation and the Work Ethic Scholarship Program