City Electric Supply (CES) is giving 10 future electricians in North America $2,000 and a Milwaukee® Tool starter tool kit!
Getting started in school or a new career path, like enrolling in an electrical trade program, can be financially demanding. Many students look for electrician training programs that offer hands-on experience and a clear path to employment. Between tuition, books, tools, and other essentials, the costs can quickly add up. For aspiring electricians, the upfront investment can feel overwhelming, especially with the need for training and tools right from the start.
CES Cares, the social impact division of City Electric Supply, is excited to announce the 2026 Brighter Future Scholarship, designed to support the next generation of skilled professionals in our industry. Each winner will receive $2,000 toward their education and a Milwaukee® Tool starter tool kit! This is one of the few scholarships for electricians, making it easier to take that first step into the trade.
Simply submit a 500-750-word essay telling us why you’re pursuing a career in the electrical industry. It’s your chance to share your story and spark your future!
Why should you join the electrical industry?
The demand for skilled trades continues to grow, creating more opportunities than ever for people looking for a stable, rewarding career. If you’re interested in hands-on work, competitive pay and long-term career growth, the electrical industry is an excellent place to start. Here’s why now is a great time to join the trade.
2026 is a great time to start your career
The electrical industry continues to grow as demand increases for new construction, infrastructure improvements, renewable energy, EV charging, data centers, and grid modernization. The U.S. electrical services market was valued at $163.9 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $294.6 billion by 2034, growing at a 6.3% compound annual growth rate (CAGR).
One of the fastest-growing skilled trades
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of electricians is projected to grow 9% from 2024 to 2034, much faster than the average for all occupations. The BLS also projects about 81,000 electrician job openings each year, driven by both industry growth and the need to replace retiring workers.
Plenty of career opportunities
Becoming an electrician opens the door to a variety of career paths. Whether you’re interested in residential, commercial or industrial work, there are opportunities to specialize as your skills grow. The electrical industry also offers careers beyond the jobsite. Experienced electricians can become instructors, start their own businesses, or apply their expertise in fields like electrical distribution and wholesale.
If you’re wondering what the career path looks like, this helpful guide walks you through the steps on how to become an electrician in 2026.
Applying is easy!
Ready to take the first step toward becoming an electrician? If this sounds like the right opportunity for you, just submit a 500-750-word essay telling us why you’re choosing this career path and where you’d like to see yourself in the future. It’s that simple!
Here’s what to do next:
- Select a trade school or certification program
- Submit your essay by September 30, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
- Find out if you’ve been selected in early November 2026