FCPS Adult and Community Education (ACE), with support from the ACE Foundation and private donors, is offering $1,000 scholarships for Skilled Trade Apprenticeship courses in Plumbing, Electrical, and HVAC.

The scholarship application window runs from June 15, 2026, through Aug. 15, 2026, with awards applied directly toward tuition for approved FCPS ACE trade courses.

The initiative reflects FCPS ACE’s continued investment in workforce development and expanding access to career training in high-demand industries.

“At least $40,000 is available to support students pursuing careers in the skilled trades this fall,” said Paul Steiner, ACE administrator. “We are grateful to the ACE Foundation and our donors for recognizing the importance of workforce development programs that strengthen our community while helping students gain valuable, career-focused skills.”

According to Bob Sargent, Educational Career Counselor with FCPS ACE, these scholarships are often the deciding factor that allows students to begin training.

“The ACE Scholarships have the potential to change lives,” Sargent said. “I speak with young people on a regular basis who say to me ‘I need training, but I don’t have any money – what am I going to do?’  I want them to know that financial barriers should not stop them from pursuing education that can lead to an in-demand, well-paying career.”

Sargent emphasized that the scholarship process is designed to be easy and student focused.

“If students express a financial need, the ACE Foundation takes them at their word,” Sargent said. “There are no background checks, no financial documents required, and scholarships are not merit-based. The money is there. Students simply need to know where to look and how to ask for it.” He noted that scholarships are also repeatable, allowing students to apply for additional support as they progress through advanced course levels.

Historically, FCPS ACE has offered these Trade Initiative Scholarships twice a year. During the previous cycle, 31 students received $1,000 awards toward their tuition costs. Sargent expressed confidence that they will award the expanded $40,000, and perhaps more, this cycle.

“One of the most rewarding parts of this work is helping students remove financial barriers and realize these careers are within reach,” Sargent added. “I’m proud of the work being done by FCPS ACE, the ACE Foundation, and the donors who continue investing in students’ futures.”

Students interested in applying can learn more at:
https://www.fcpsace.org/info/landing/Bi-Annual-FCPS-ACE-Trades-Scholarship

Community members interested in supporting the scholarship program can donate through the ACE Foundation at:
https://www.ace-partnership.com/donate