The Mike Rowe Works Foundation Work Ethic Scholarship is a major funding opportunity for Americans pursuing skilled trade careers.
Each year, millions of dollars in scholarships are awarded to hardworking individuals training in high-demand fields such as welding, plumbing, electrical work, HVAC, construction, agriculture, transportation, and technical systems.
This guide explains the scholarship details, eligibility requirements, benefits, eligible programs, required documents, and the complete application process.
Work Ethic Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: United States of America
- Category: High School Scholarships | High School Seniors | Undergraduate Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: United States of America
- Reward: Up to $20,000 Scholarship Award
- No Essay Required
- Deadline: October 31, 2026
Mike Rowe Work Ethic Scholarship Details
The Work Ethic Scholarship Program is offering over $2.5 million in scholarships to support students pursuing practical skills and trade-based education.
The program focuses on encouraging individuals who are willing to work hard, learn valuable skills, and contribute to essential industries that keep the country running.
The scholarship supports short-term vocational and technical training programs that typically last two years or less.
Eligibility Requirements for Mike Rowe Work Ethic Scholarship 2026
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Be a high school senior or graduate.
- Be enrolled or planning to enroll in an approved trade or vocational program.
- Attend an accredited institution.
- Sign the S.W.E.A.T. Pledge.
- Provide an official tuition bill or cost statement from the school.
Benefits of Mike Rowe Work Ethic Scholarship 2026
- Access to a share of $2.5 million scholarship funding.
- Covers tuition and study-related expenses.
- Support for books, materials, and training costs.
- Encourages careers in high-demand skilled trades.
- Backed by the Mike Rowe Works Foundation.
Eligible Programs for Work Ethic Scholarship 2026
Eligible programs include skilled trade and vocational areas such as:
- Construction and infrastructure programs.
- Welding and fabrication programs.
- Electrical and HVAC programs.
- Transportation and mechanical systems programs.
- Agriculture and land management programs.
- Industrial production and maintenance programs.
- Technical systems and digital infrastructure programs.
How to Apply for Mike Rowe Work Ethic Scholarship 2026 (Step by Step)
- Visit the official scholarship application page.
- Confirm that you meet all eligibility requirements.
- Complete the applicant and school information sections.
- Review and sign the S.W.E.A.T. Pledge.
- Answer the four short-answer questions related to the pledge.
- Record and upload a short introduction video.
- Provide contact information for two references.
- Upload your transcript and tuition bill.
- Submit your application before October 31, 2026.
📋 Required Documents
- Official Academic Transcripts
- Two References (Teacher, Employer, or Supervisor)
- Tuition Bill or Official Cost Statement
- Short Video Introduction
- Completed S.W.E.A.T. Pledge Responses
- Applicant and School Information