Developing tomorrow’s workforce is of vital importance throughout the woodworking industry. To help achieve that goal, the Education Foundation of the Architectural Woodwork Institute (AWIEF) recently awarded eight scholarships for 2023 totaling $28,000 to students whose academic curricula are preparing them for careers in the architectural woodwork industry.

“There were only 14 scholarship applications this year. The number of schools participating in 2023 was down, which is a concern and compels us to find new ways to reach applicants. Our goal is to distribute $50,000 a year for the next 18 years!” AWI CEO Doug Hague said.

The awards are largely made possible by a $1 million contribution from the Quality Certification Corp. in 2021 for annual scholarship funding of $50,000 per year for 20 years.  The student support funds are designated as Randolph Estabrook Scholarships in honor of QCC’s former executive director.

The Foundation also receives funds for awarding scholarships and grants by AWI members and AWI Chapters. 

“Nearly $55,000 was contributed by over 60 donors during our ‘3rd Project Gratitude’ event on Sept. 19 (during AWI's annual convention), which featured an open mic to raise funds and an auction for a trip to the 2024 AWI Convention.  To my knowledge this was the most money ever donated at an AWIEF fundraising event,” Hague reported.  “Everyone working together made it happen!”

More than $297,000 in scholarships has been distributed by AWIEF, “the giving arm of AWI,” since its founding in 2008. The Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit corporation that provides opportunities for education and professional development for the next generation of woodworking professionals. For information visit AWInet.org.