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Vocational/Trade Scholarship sponsored by Duke Energy

Applying for a Vocational/Trade Scholarship sponsored by Duke Energy

The Next Chapter of Student Success

Aligned with CFY's commitment to elevating youth, the Vocational/Trade Scholarship Program sponsored by Duke Energy supports students pursuing career and technical education, vocational training, and skilled trades careers. This program helps students take the next step toward a successful future after participating in CFY-supported programs.

For more information, please review the Vocational/Trade Scholarship Program FAQs below or contact us.

13 Trade Vocational $3,500 collected graphic

ABOUT THE SCHOLARSHIP

Vocational/Trade Scholarship sponsored by Duke Energy

In 2026, CFY partnered with Pinellas Technical College to provide 13 vocational scholarships to Pinellas County graduating seniors. CFY covers the cost of a program certification for students attending Pinellas Technical College, while students pursuing other trade school and career education programs may receive up to a $3,500 scholarship.

This program connects community sponsors with aspiring Pinellas County high school seniors pursuing vocational training, skilled trades careers, and career-focused education. Students may only apply for one ROJ Education Program Scholarship.

The annual application period runs from November 15 – January 23.

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APPLICATION PROCESS

How You Can Apply

Applications must be submitted through the CFY website. Exceptions are made only in rare cases for students facing barriers to computer or internet access. CFY provides resources and guidance to help scholarship applicants successfully complete the application process.

QUESTIONS?

Scholarship FAQs

Who is eligible to apply for a scholarship?
Any high school senior who attends a Pinellas County High School, public or private, may apply for the Vocational/Trade Scholarship which is only for students who plan to attend Pinellas Technical College or similar vocational/trade program. Students attending College/University or St. Petersburg College are not eligible for this scholarship. Please apply for the ROJ Traditional Scholarship Program or CFY/SPC Scholarship Program which are only for students who are intending to enroll at a College/University or St. Petersburg College. Some exceptions may be made as determined by the CFY Scholarship Committee.
How do I apply for a Vocational/Trade Scholarship?
Applications are to be completed online through the CFY website by selecting the appropriate area on the application for the Vocational/Trade Scholarship Program sponsored by Duke Energy during the open application period.  Students may only apply for one CFY Scholarship Program only (there are currently 3).  If an applicant is unable to access a computer to complete the application or otherwise requires special accommodation, a student representative/counselor must communicate this to the CFY office. The application includes essay questions and when prompted the applicant must complete to be considered. 
Who makes the decision on the applications?
Applications are submitted to the Vocational/Trade Scholarship Committee for a blind review process (all identifying information about the student and family removed.) Upon review of the completed application and essay, top applicants are determined by the committee.
Will I be notified if I do not receive a scholarship?
Yes, all applicants will receive decision communication.
Why do I need to write a thank you letter to my sponsor?
Unlike other CFY fundraising/impact efforts, sponsors of the Vocational/Trade Scholarship Program sponsored by Duke Energy has chosen to make a donation that will directly impact an individual student, rather than a broader community impact. It is important to thank them for their support and the impact it will make and is making on your educational journey.
How is the scholarship distributed?
Scholarships are issued directly to Pinellas Technical College (or equivalent program) to the students account using the information provided on the Scholarship Disbursement Form, distributed upon award and due no later than July 31st of each year to students in good standing. 
What must I do to receive this scholarship?
What can the funds be used for?
Scholarship funds may be used for tuition, fees, books and equipment only.  It is the student’s responsibility to work with your school to apply funds appropriately. 
What will happen if I change schools between semesters?
Since this approval for is for Pinellas Technical College only it is nontransferable.  A written (email) submission showing withdrawal must be sent to scholarships@cfypinellas.org remain in good standing with CFY. The student is responsible for requesting a refund from Pinellas Technical College (or equivalent program), payable to CFY to remain in good standing with CFY.  
What if I take a semester or a year off?
To avoid forfeiting scholarship funds, a written submission indicating you are taking time off must be sent to scholarships@cfypinellas.org. Scholarship commitments for this program by CFY are good for two years following high school graduation and will be withdrawn and funds awarded to another deserving student in the next cycle. 
What if Pinellas Technical College says they did not receive the funds?

Please allow anywhere from 2-6 weeks (about 1 and a half months) from the check date for processing. Checks are issued using the information provided exactly as it is on the Scholarship Disbursement Form, so it is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure correct school and personnel detail. If PTC still states that the funds have not been received beyond a reasonable time frame, please email  scholarships@cfypinellas.org  with your name, the name and your student ID. We will respond via email with your check number and date to be provided to the financial aid office for research. 

Students are required to submit the following by June 15th to scholarships@cfypinellas.org  following their first year to avoid delays in their second-year funding: 

  • Official transcript showing the students status and grade point average 
  • A thank you letter to the donor including an update on what the first-year experience has meant to your development 
  • Fall course schedule 
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ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

Need-Based Qualification

Applicants may choose to apply for Need-Based Qualification to be considered for additional support. While not required, completing this section in your application is encouraged, as qualifying students will receive an automatic point toward their overall selection score.

  • Eligibility is determined based on Income Eligibility Guidelines and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
  • Need-based applicants will be verified through school administration and the Florida Department of Children and Families.

DISCOVER HOW WE'RE MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Scholarship Recipients & Sponsors

Explore educational scholarship recipients and the generous sponsors helping Pinellas County students their academic and career goals.

THANK YOU TO OUR SCHOLARSHIP SPONSORS

Partners Helping Drive Your Success

THE PEOPLE MAKING AN IMPACT

Vocational/Trade Scholarship Committee

Dawn Daugherty, Co-Chair / Brandy Halladay, Co-Chair

  • Shaun Beasley 
  • Eric Krause
  • Melissa Lostraglio
  • Charlie Drake
  • Dr. Calvin Harris
  • John Moser

Volunteers

  • Anna Gilman
  • Sandra Hancock
Largo High school students and CFY members posing with CFY's poster

IMPORTANT DATES

Scholarship Applications Timeline

CONTINUING THE MISSION

The Next Chapter of Student Success

Building on CFY's mission of elevating youth, the Vocational/Trade Scholarship Program powered by Duke Energy helps students continue their journey from youth development programs into career education, vocational training, and skilled trades careers.

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Trade/Vocational Scholarships Available (10 opportunities)

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