The Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors—National Association (PHCC) Educational Foundation announced Bernzomatic as the newest major sponsor for the PHCC scholarship program. Bernzomatic will be funding more than 50 new scholarships through 2029 for students pursuing plumbing or HVAC apprenticeships, service technician training or college degrees directly related to the plumbing-heating-cooling industry.    

Worthington Enterprises acquired Bernzomatic in 2011. Todd Whited, general manager – Tools, Worthington Enterprises, said, “Throughout its 150-year history, Bernzomatic has earned its reputation as a safe, durable and high-performing brand enabling users to take on any job with craftsmanship and confidence. We feel there is no better way to commemorate our legacy than by investing in the plumbers and contractors of the future. Alongside the PHCC Educational Foundation, we’re committed to supporting and celebrating trade students who are pursuing careers of constructing, fixing, making, creating and exploring what’s possible.”

Compared to typical university tuition costs, trade schools and apprenticeship programs offer students a lower cost path for their required education. But the training costs can still be a barrier for individuals just starting in the trades earning entry-level wages. For older transitional workers making a career shift, the extra burden of supporting a family can also limit options. The Foundation’s scholarship program helps remove obstacles by offsetting the cost of technical education, allowing students to focus on building skills that will increase their long-term earning potential. New hires who take the initiative to earn a scholarship can prove to their employers that they are invested in improving their skills and becoming a more valuable member of the team.

Contractor employers that cover training costs can still gain from having their eligible employees apply for scholarships. The awards directly offset training costs, freeing funding for additional training or other company needs. Beyond that, the sense of pride and accomplishment in scholarship winners often translates to a deeper commitment to making the most of the training they are receiving.

With the addition of the Bernzomatic investment, the PHCC Foundation plans to award 80 scholarships in 2026, with funding of up to $200,000 available to award winners. The deadline for applications and all supporting materials to be submitted is May 1. All applications are reviewed and scored by a committee of Foundation contractor volunteers over the summer. The applicants with the highest average scores are paired with the available awards and winners are notified in early August. The application and more information can be found at phccfoundation.org/scholarships.