SEATTLE (October 21, 2026) — The Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning (DEEL) has opened applications for the 2026 Path to Trades Non-Colleges Request for Proposals (RFP). Qualified organizations, training providers and community partners are invited to propose programs that expand access to trades career pathways for Seattle public high school 11th and 12th grade students.
The $627,666 multi-year investment is funded by the Every Child Ready—Families, Education, Preschool, and Promise (FEPP) Levy Career Pathways strategy to support students’ postsecondary attainment and success. Funding will support programs operating during the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 school years, ending on August 31, 2028. The number and size of awards will depend on qualified proposals received.
“Every young person in Seattle deserves a clear path to a career where they can thrive,” said Mayor Katie B. Wilson. “By connecting students with training, mentorship and hands-on experience, Path to Trades will help more young people turn their talents into family-sustaining careers while building the skilled workforce our city needs.”
The Path to Trades investment will help young people learn about trades careers and prepare for living-wage jobs. DEEL encourages applications from providers with a demonstrated history of effectively serving Black, Indigenous and other students of color; students who would be the first in their family to enter a trades career; and women and people with gender identities underrepresented in trades professions.
“As the daughter of a welder, including this investment in the FEPP Levy was important and near and dear to my heart. I know firsthand what a difference a job in the trades can mean to a family,” said Councilmember Maritza Rivera, Chair of the Libraries, Education, Neighborhoods Committee. “Seattle students need more than one path to a successful future. This investment will give students access to the skilled trades, earn valuable credentials, and connect to stable, well-paying careers.”
The initiative’s long-term goal is to increase the number of Seattle young people entering living-wage trades careers. Funded programs should help students:
- Build knowledge of trades career pathways.
- Complete career training or relevant degree programs.
- Earn industry-recognized certificates or credentials.
- Enroll in pre-apprenticeship or apprenticeship programs.
- Develop the skills and experience needed to pursue careers in the trades.
Proposals may include scholarships up to $1,500 for tools, supplies or other required program or professional items, as well as other financial support such as stipends, tuition or fees.
Selected providers must meet all City contracting requirements before their contract begins, including applicable business licensing, registration and insurance requirements. Proposed programs must support entry into a trades career pathway through at least one of the following:
- A Washington state-accredited educational institution.
- A Washington state-registered apprenticeship program.
- A Washington state-accredited training provider.
Washington state-accredited educational institutions that offer trades training may apply on their own or as a training partner with another provider. Enrolled students may continue participating after graduation. Services must be offered in person or through a combination of in-person and virtual formats; fully virtual or remote programs are not eligible for funding.
“Our Path to Trades investment is about opening doors to stable, living wage careers that support families and communities throughout our city,” said Dr. Dwane Chappelle, director of DEEL. “We are excited to partner with organizations that share our commitment to creating inclusive pathways into the trades and removing barriers for young people, especially those historically underrepresented in these industries.”
Formal credentials, including certifications and apprenticeships, can substantially increase workers’ earning potential. However, young people interested in the trades often face barriers such as limited access to career preparation, high up-front costs for tools and materials, and inequities in hiring and advancement. These challenges have contributed to the continued underrepresentation of Black and African American workers, particularly in leadership positions across the skilled trades.
“A career in the trades can change the course of a young person’s life, but getting started isn’t always easy,” said De’Vaughn Woods, a cement mason with Local 528. “Students need to know what opportunities are available, how to prepare and where to find support. Programs like Path to Trades can provide that guidance and help young people see that there is a place for them in this industry.”
Proposals must be submitted through Submittable by 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, November 17, 2026. Award notifications are scheduled for January 11, 2027.
RFP information sessions will be held October 26 and November 4, 2026, to help prospective applicants understand the opportunity and apply through Submittable.
Prospective applicants can review the full RFP, submission guidelines, information session details and updates at seattle.gov/education/for-providers/funding-opportunities. Check the webpage regularly for updates, clarifications or amendments. Apply through Submittable; late applications will not be accepted.
Submit questions about the RFP or submission process by November 12, 2026, to DEELfunding@seattle.gov with the subject line “Question: Path to Trades Non-Colleges RFP.”
