Vocational and Technical School Scholarships

We know that college isn't for everybody, but many students don't realize that Bootstraps scholarships can be used for higher education other than four-year degrees. Students can apply for scholarships to be used for two-year community colleges and for programs at trade and technical schools. Bootstraps has scholarships especially for specific careers such as precision machining, carpentry, drafting, and many other specialties.

Let's say you're considering a construction-related trade, such as plumbing. When you go to a trade school, they're going to teach you how to be a plumber. But they will also teach you how to do bids for jobs, how you should dress when meeting with a client for the first time, how to read a blue print for when you're installing in new construction, and many other skills essential for being a top-notch plumber. You will also earn a lot more money that if you didn't get professional training. As a first-year plumber with trade school training, you can make around $33,000 a year compared to someone with no trade school of about $20,000.

The cost of these programs vary, but a two-year plumbing program at Red Rocks Community College will cost less than $10,000. Since you'll earn $13,000 more in your first year than with just a high school diploma, it's well worth the investment.

If you're lucky enough to receive a Bootstraps scholarship and/or interest-free loan, you'll be well on your way to funding your career.

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