Fairfax County Public Schools Adult and Community Education (FCPS ACE), with support from the ACE Foundation and private donors, is accepting applications for $1,000 scholarships toward approved electrical and plumbing apprenticeship courses beginning in February 2027.

For this application period, scholarships are available for Electrical Levels 2 and 4 and Plumbing Levels 1, 2 and 4.

Applications are accepted through Dec. 31, 2026. Awards are applied directly toward eligible FCPS ACE course tuition. Scholarships are based on financial need, not merit, and applicants do not need to submit financial documents.

“I am deeply grateful to the ACE Foundation and the donors whose generosity makes these scholarships possible,” said Paul Steiner, ACE administrator. “Their support helps remove a financial barrier so more students can pursue training that builds careers and strengthens our skilled workforce. By investing in students, the ACE Foundation is also investing in the employers and communities that depend on qualified tradespeople.”

Apprenticeship training helps students build practical skills and advance through the skilled trades. Upper-level courses support students as they work toward industry-recognized NCCER credentials that employers can verify. In Virginia, electrical and plumbing tradesmen are subject to state licensing requirements. Progressing toward journeyman or master licensure involves meeting defined qualifications and can help tradespeople take on greater responsibility and increase their earnings as their careers advance.

FCPS ACE is committed to workforce development through career-focused training, apprenticeship programs, industry-recognized credentials, and financial aid options that help adults move forward in high-demand fields. Apprenticeship instruction lets students continue building their skills while working, and scholarships and payment plans help make training more accessible. Scholarships and payment plans are also available year-round for many other career programs.

Students can find application details and eligible courses on the FCPS ACE Trades Scholarship page.

Community members interested in supporting the scholarship program can donate through the ACE Foundation.