The Hourglass Foundation is now accepting applications for its 2026 scholarship program, offering more than $60,000 in financial support for students pursuing careers in automotive technology and other skilled trades.

The nonprofit organization, which serves as the philanthropic arm of Flexco Fleet Services, said the scholarships are designed to expand access to technical education and support industries facing ongoing workforce shortages. 

Applications are currently open and will close on April 10, 2026.

The program supports students pursuing post-secondary education in fields such as automotive technology, automotive repair, diesel maintenance, HVAC, electrical work, plumbing, welding, and construction.

Kim Davidson, executive director of The Hourglass Foundation, said investing in the next generation of skilled professionals is an important step toward addressing the labor gap affecting many industries.

“The skilled trades workforce shortage affects all of us, from longer wait times and higher prices for repairs and services, to recruitment efforts of companies looking for highly skilled trades talent,” Davidson said. 

The 2026 scholarship program includes several awards to support a diverse range of applicants entering the trades. Individual scholarships range from $2,000 tool grants to a $15,000 award for veterans pursuing technical education.

Scholarships available this year include:

• More Than One Path Scholarship — $5,000 for students pursuing automotive technology or related skilled trades programs.

• Women in Auto Tech Scholarship — $5,000 for female students entering automotive programs

• Women Rock Trades Scholarships — $2,500 each (two available) for women pursuing careers in the trades.

• Tools of the Trade Scholarships — $2,000 each (two available) to help offset the cost of tools required for training.

• Geotab Veteran Scholarship for the Trades — $15,000 for current or former members of the U.S. military pursuing education in automotive or other technical fields.

Foundation leaders say industry professionals can play an important role by helping spread the word to potential applicants.

The scholarships are open to students attending community colleges, trade schools, or ASE-certified programs, and are intended to help individuals gain the technical skills needed to build long-term careers in the skilled trades.