SEF Trades Initiative

SEF Trades Fund Grant Program

The Snohomish Education Foundation (SEF) is launching a SEF Trades Fund Grant program to support graduating Snohomish School District students pursuing careers in the trades. This program is an extension of the SEF Local Scholarship Program and provides financial assistance for training, certifications, tools, and other expenses in fields like construction, automotive technology, welding, electrical work, plumbing, cosmetology and more. By investing in the trades, SEF helps students access industry certifications, apprenticeships, and specialized training for stable, well-paying careers.

Applications are open now and will be reviewed on a rolling basis through August 2025. Applicants must be 2025 graduates of SSD. Notifications will be made as reviews are completed of the application.

SEF Trades Advisory Council Overview 

The Snohomish Education Foundation (SEF) is forming a community Advisory Council to guide the growth, reach, and impact of the SEF Trades Initiative. This initiative supports students in the Snohomish School District as they pursue skilled trade and technical career paths. We believe that building a sustainable and responsive trades program requires the insight, voice, and leadership of our community. 

Purpose 

The Trades Advisory Council will provide guidance, input, and advocacy for the development and expansion of SEF’s Trades Initiative. This group will help shape program priorities, ensure alignment with workforce needs, and strengthen connections across industries, training programs, and our local Snohomish community. 

What We’re Asking 

We’re seeking individuals who can contribute in one or more of the following ways: 

  • Share time and input during meetings 
  • Offer expertise or perspective from industry, education, or workforce development 
  • Help us shape and refine the Trades Fund application and award process 
  • Provide or facilitate introductions to potential partners, funders, or sponsors 
  • Advocate for the program in the Snohomish community 

Recognition  

As a member of the SEF Trades Advisory Council, your time and contributions will be recognized and valued. While this is a volunteer advisory role, we are committed to showing appreciation by:  

  • Inclusion of your name (with permission) in SEF’s annual report and on our website 
  • Invitations to SEF events and student showcases 
  • Occasional thank-you notes or updates from student grant recipients 

Meeting Frequency 

The Advisory Board will meet (tentatively) quarterly, beginning in September 2025. Meetings will be scheduled in advance and held in person or virtually as needed. Between meetings, advisory council members may be asked to review Trades Fund applications or provide feedback on program or student requests/needs. 

Your Role 

This is an advisory group — not a working committee. We are not asking for hands-on management or coordination. Instead, we value your ideas, connections, and insights to help guide this work and move it forward. We ask members to commit to a 12-month term with the option to renew. 

Next Steps 

If you’re interested in joining the SEF Trades Advisory Board, please complete our short interest form. We’ll follow up with more details and an invitation to our first meeting in September 2025.