Professional contractors may enroll in online courses, seek scholarships

Professional contractors may enroll in online courses, seek scholarships

Students and working adults who are pursuing careers in the construction industry may benefit from financial assistance initiatives, such as the Home Depot's Pro Trade Scholarship Program.

Individuals who are working toward construction-related degrees are eligible to apply for the awards, which are worth $1,000 each.

A total of 500 awards will be disbursed to students at vocational schools, colleges or universities in the U.S. to help them cover the cost of tuition, books and tools that are required by the trade.

Winners will be selected based on their demonstrated leadership ability, work experience and academic qualifications.

The company will also award matching gifts to each beneficiary's school to help them pay for educational tools.

Both awards are intended to "help our current and future [professional contractors] build successful businesses," said Chris Waits, vice president of sales and services for the Home Depot.

Individuals who wish to advance in this field may seek similar scholarship opportunities to help them pay for online degree programs, which can allow them to focus on their career development while they enhance their qualifications.