Ford Philanthropy NLSC Travel Grant

In partnership with Ford Philanthropy, SkillsUSA is pleased to offer a travel grant to support SkillsUSA members attending the 2026 National Leadership and Skills Conference (NLSC). This opportunity reflects Ford Philanthropy’s commitment to helping people move forward and build meaningful futures, while encouraging SkillsUSA members to pursue careers in the skilled trades.

Eligible applicants include high school and postsecondary students competing at NLSC in June in Atlanta in the specified competition areas listed below.

Preference will be given to competitors representing the following SkillsUSA state associations: Illinois, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Tennessee. Additional preference will be given to applicants who demonstrate financial need through a brief 300 word essay.

Eligible members may apply for up to $1,500 to help offset costs associated with attending the 2026 National Leadership and Skills Conference. Recipients must agree to use funds for appropriate travel, lodging, and registration expenses as outlined in the application.

The application opens February 23 and closes April 24 (Phase 1) or May 15 (Phase 2), based on state conference dates.

See full details about the scholarship phases here.

• Open to NLSC competitors in specified competition areas.

• Open to high school and postsecondary members.

• Preference given to NLSC competitors in specified states.

• Preference given to applicants who demonstrate financial need through a 300 word essay.

To be eligible to apply for the Ford Philanthropy NSLC Travel Grant

• SkillsUSA member for 2025-2026.

• Eligible to compete on behalf of your state in the SkillsUSA 2026 NLSC.

• Able to demonstrate financial need through online essay submission.

• Registered to compete in the following contests at the 2026 NLSC.

  • Additive manufacturing

  • Auto Maintenance and Light Repair

  • Automated Manufacturing Technology

  • Automotive Refinishing Technology

  • Auto Service Technology

  • CNC 2- Axis Turning Programmer

  • CNC 3- Axis Milling Programmer

  • CNC 5 – Axis Milling Programmer

  • CNC Programmer

  • Collision Damage Appraisal

  • Collision Repair Technology

  • Diesel Equipment Technology

  • Electronics Technology

  • Engineering Technology-Design

  • Industrial Motor Control

  • Mechatronics

  • Power Equipment Technology

  • Robotics and Automation Technology

• Preference given to applicants from the following states:

  • Illinois

  • Kentucky

  • Michigan

  • Missouri

  • New York

  • Ohio

  • Tennessee