Jessi Combs Foundation Scholarship Program
Scholarship Sponsored by Jessi Combs Foundation
Description
**Purpose and scope**
This scholarship reduces part of the financial burden associated with post-secondary trade education and removes one barrier that can prevent women from entering skilled trades. It supports training in industrial and construction-related programs and emphasizes practical career entry rather than academic degrees alone. The award is intended as both financial assistance and a bridge to employment opportunities within male-dominated trades. Recipients are expected to be beginning or continuing vocational training in the United States.
Key takeaways:
- Reduces financial barriers to trade-focused vocational education.
- Targets industrial and construction trade programs.
- Focuses on career entry and practical training.
- Available to applicants studying or accepted at U.S. vocational institutions.
Eligibility
**Who can apply**
Applicants must identify as women and be either a high school senior, high school graduate, or hold a GED equivalent at the time of application. Eligible studies include accredited U.S. vocational schools, technical colleges, two-year colleges, or approved vocational institutes with programs in industrial or construction trades. Proof of enrollment or acceptance is required as part of the application. Applicants should confirm program accreditation and alignment with trade-related skills before applying.
Key takeaways:
- Applicant must identify as a woman.
- Open to high school seniors, graduates, or GED holders.
- Must be enrolled in or accepted to an accredited U.S. vocational/trade program.
- Proof of enrollment/acceptance required.
Application Materials
**What to submit**
Applications are submitted electronically through the foundation’s website and consist primarily of personal information (including proof of enrollment) and a video essay. The video essay is the applicant’s opportunity to convey personality, passion, motivation, and authenticity—elements that documents alone cannot capture. Ensure all files meet the foundation’s format and length requirements and that identifying information is accurate. Follow the online instructions carefully to avoid disqualification for incomplete submission.
Key takeaways:
- Submit personal details, enrollment verification, and a video essay online.
- The video essay showcases personality, passion, and authenticity.
- Follow file format and submission instructions closely.
- Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
Evaluation Process and Panel
**How applications are judged**
Applications are reviewed by The Jessi Combs Foundation Board of Directors, supported by a diverse selection of industry professionals from sectors such as off-road racing, metal fabrication, and general trades. Reviewers include both veterans who knew Jessi and newer industry leaders who are committed to expanding opportunities for women in trades. Selection criteria balance eligibility, the substance of the video essay, and the applicant’s demonstrated commitment to a trades career. The panel’s composition is intended to ensure practical, industry-informed assessment.
Key takeaways:
- Reviewed by the JCF Board and a diverse industry panel.
- Panel includes veterans and newer leaders from male-dominated trades.
- Evaluation considers eligibility, video essay, and career commitment.
- Emphasis on practical, industry-informed judgment.
Application Timeline
**Submission and review flow**
Applications are submitted online; the foundation posts current deadlines and cycle dates on its website. After the submission deadline, the panel reviews applications and selects recipients according to the published schedule. Exact review periods and notification dates vary by cycle, so applicants should monitor the foundation’s site for updates and deadlines. Winners are notified per the foundation’s communications policy.
Key takeaways:
- Submit by posted online deadlines.
- Panel review occurs after the application window closes.
- Notification and cycle dates are published on the foundation website.
- Monitor the foundation site for schedule updates.
Award Value and Distribution
**What recipients receive**
Award amounts vary and are intended to offset part of education-related costs rather than cover full tuition; specific award values are determined by the foundation each cycle. Funds are disbursed on a monthly schedule to the recipient, with payment timing and amounts governed by the foundation’s policies. Exact award amounts, number of scholarships, and disbursement mechanics are announced with each application cycle. Applicants should consult the foundation for current award details.
Key takeaways:
- Award amounts vary and are partial financial support.
- Funds are paid on a monthly schedule.
- Specific amounts and number of awards are announced each cycle.
- Check the foundation for current award details.
Conditions and Obligations
**Recipient responsibilities**
Recipients must remain in good academic and institutional standing to continue receiving monthly disbursements. Awardees are also required to adhere to The Jessi Combs Foundation’s Social Contract and any other recipient terms detailed by the foundation. Failure to maintain standing or to comply with the Social Contract may result in suspension or termination of funds. The foundation provides recipients with the obligations and reporting requirements upon award.
Key takeaways:
- Continued payment depends on good standing with the institution.
- Recipients must comply with the foundation’s Social Contract.
- Noncompliance or loss of standing can halt payments.
- Detailed recipient obligations are provided after award.
Community and Career Support
**Network and ongoing engagement**
Beyond financial support, the program intentionally builds a community—The JCF Family—composed of past recipients, sponsors, industry contacts, and Friends of the Foundation. The foundation leverages its network to create introductions and career opportunities for applicants and graduates, helping recipients transition into the trades. Scholarship recipients join a lifelong connection to peers and mentors who share a commitment to expanding women’s participation in male-dominated industries. The community component is a key differentiator of this program.
Key takeaways:
- Scholarship includes access to The JCF Family network.
- Foundation facilitates industry introductions and career opportunities.
- Recipients gain mentorship and peer support.
- Community engagement continues beyond the award term.
History of the Award
**Origins and mission**
The scholarship is awarded in Jessi’s name to honor her legacy and to further her commitment to women advancing in trades and motorsports-related industries. The foundation was established to remove barriers that prevented women from pursuing careers in skilled trades and to create pathways into male-dominated fields. Each award cycle reinforces that mission by supporting training, career readiness, and community building. The program reflects both tribute and practical investment in the next generation of women in the trades.
Key takeaways:
- Named to honor Jessi and her legacy.
- Founded to remove barriers and expand women’s access to trades.
- Combines financial support with career and community-building goals.
- Reinforces mission through each award cycle.
Where to find more information
**Next steps**
Visit The Jessi Combs Foundation website for current application dates, award details, submission instructions, and contact information for support. The site hosts the online application portal and posts all official policies, timelines, and FAQs. Prospective applicants should review all posted materials before preparing their submission.
Key takeaways:
- Official details and deadlines are on the foundation website.
- Application portal and policies are published online.
- Review all instructions and FAQs before applying.