Black & Jones Scholarship Fund
At Black & Jones, we believe the future of America is built by skilled hands, strong work ethic and practical talent—the electricians who power our homes, the welders who shape our infrastructure, the mechanics and pilots who keep us moving, and the countless professionals who keep our communities running.
As a Rockford-based law firm proudly serving our community for more than 25 years, we are committed to supporting the next generation of builders, makers, healers and problem-solvers.
About the Scholarship Fund
About the Scholarship
Black & Jones Attorneys at Law is proud to continue our annual Black & Jones Scholarship Fund to support dedicated high school seniors who are choosing a path in the skilled trades or career fields that require specialized training, sometimes without the traditional four-year degree. We believe these careers are not just jobs. They are essential, respected and in-demand professions that shape our country every day.
Award Purpose
This scholarship provides financial support via a $2,500 award to local high school graduates from Rockford and surrounding areas who are ready to take the next step toward a hands-on career through trade school, certification programs or technical training.
Who Should Apply
To be eligible to apply, students must meet the following requirements:
- High school senior graduating in the Class of 2027
- Live in the Rockford, Illinois area, including within the counties of Boone, Carroll, DeKalb, Lee, Jo Daviess, Ogle, Stephenson, Whiteside and Winnebago
- Plan to enroll in a trade school, certification or vocational program
- Are passionate about building a career in fields such as, but not limited to: construction, electrical, HVAC, plumbing, automotive, aviation, welding, manufacturing, healthcare tech and other skilled professions
Key Dates
Eligible students may begin applying for the scholarship on August 1, 2026. The application will remain open until February 1, 2027.
The winner will be chosen by February 15, 2027, and announced by March 1, 2027, so the award can be included in local school scholarship award nights.
How to Apply
Submit a short personal statement of 500-750 words that addresses the following:
- What inspires you to pursue a career in the skilled trades or a hands-on profession?
- How do you hope to make an impact through your work?
- Share what drew you to your chosen trade: a personal story, role model or experience that inspired you.
- Share your goals for the future and why skilled trades matter to your community.
2025 Scholarship Winners
For the inaugural year of the Black & Jones Scholarship Fund, four local seniors were each awarded a $2,500 scholarship to pursue a career in the skilled trades.
- Kaleb Chambers – Stillman Valley High School
- Nicholas Wythe – Stillman Valley High School
- Zachary Spates – Hononegah Community High School
- Bryce Kennedy – Belvidere North High School
The World Needs You
You don't need a four-year degree to build a meaningful, successful and respected career. The world needs people who can fix, create, build and improve. At Black & Jones Attorneys at Law, we're proud to support students who are ready to step into these roles!