Michigan American Legion Auxiliary Medical Career Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Michigan American Legion Auxiliary

Description
The American Legion Skilled Trades Scholarship provides targeted financial support for Michigan young people pursuing careers in construction, automotive, advanced manufacturing, or energy trades. It is intended for individuals who are enrolled in post–high school trades training, an apprenticeship, or a two‑year college skilled‑trade program that leads to state or federal certification. The program focuses on practical, career‑ready pathways rather than four‑year academic degrees. The award is administered by the American Legion Department of Michigan in cooperation with scholarship donors.

- Key takeaways:
- Targets Michigan residents pursuing skilled trades careers.
- Supports apprenticeships, trades training, or two‑year skilled‑trade programs.
- Administered by the American Legion Department of Michigan with donor support.

Eligibility
The scholarship has clear eligibility boundaries to prioritize those entering the trades. Applicants must be Michigan residents and between 17 and 21 years old at the time they apply. Eligible programs include post‑high school trades training, registered apprenticeships, or two‑year college programs in the listed trades that lead to state or federal certification. A descendant‑of‑a‑veteran connection is preferred but not required.

- Key takeaways:
- Must be a Michigan resident.
- Applicants must be ages 17–21 at application time.
- Must be enrolled in qualifying trades training, apprenticeship, or two‑year program.
- Veteran descendant status is preferred, optional.

Award Value & Quantity
The scholarship is structured as a two‑year award of $1,000 per year. Recipients receive $1,000 in each eligible year, for a total potential award of $2,000 across two years. For 2026, two scholarships will be awarded. The committee determines awards in conjunction with scholarship donors.

- Key takeaways:
- $1,000 awarded per year, payable up to two years.
- Total potential award per recipient: $2,000.
- Two scholarships planned for the 2026 cycle.

Covered Expenses
Award funds are intended to offset direct costs required to start or continue a trades career. Typical eligible expenses include tools, specialized clothing, gear, safety equipment, and fees associated with post‑secondary trades schools, training programs, apprenticeships, or two‑year college skilled‑trade programs. The scholarship is not restricted to tuition alone; it accommodates both supplies and program fees relevant to the trade.

- Key takeaways:
- Pays for tools, gear, and safety equipment.
- Covers fees and expenses at trades schools, apprenticeships, and two‑year programs.
- Supports both supplies and program‑related costs.

Application & Timeline
Applications and all supporting materials must be received by the scholarship’s April deadline to be considered. Applicants should verify the exact April submission date and required documentation with the American Legion Department of Michigan or program materials. Missing or late materials will disqualify an application, so allow time for collection and delivery of transcripts, enrollment verification, and any supplemental items the committee requests.

- Key takeaways:
- Application packet must be received by April (confirm exact date).
- All supporting materials are required for consideration.
- Confirm submission requirements with the Department of Michigan.

Award Procedure & Conditions
Disbursement of funds depends on how the award will be used: checks may be issued to the individual, the educational institution, training program, or a vendor/ business supplying tools or equipment. Proof of supply costs is required before funds intended for supplies will be released. The scholarship is valid for two years; payment of the second‑year $1,000 depends on submission of first‑year transcripts and proof of continued enrollment in the trades program, college coursework, or continued employment in the trade.

- Key takeaways:
- Checks issued to recipient, school, program, or vendor based on use.
- Proof of supply costs required for supply disbursements.
- Second‑year payment contingent on first‑year transcripts and enrollment/employment proof.

History & Administration
The scholarship is offered through the American Legion Department of Michigan and overseen by its Education and Scholarship Committee in partnership with scholarship donors. Awards are made at the committee’s discretion based on the established eligibility and application criteria. The program reflects the American Legion’s emphasis on supporting veteran families and career readiness in skilled trades, though veteran lineage is not mandatory for applicants.

- Key takeaways:
- Administered by the American Legion Department of Michigan’s Education and Scholarship Committee.
- Awards decided in conjunction with scholarship donors.
- Aligns with the American Legion’s mission to support trades career pathways.