The Washington State Chapter of the American Public Works Association is offering two $3,000 CDL scholarships annually to current public works employees or people seeking a job in public works.
Maintenance & Operations is a crucial component of public works departments. M&O workers are the frontline employees and first responders that ensure our infrastructure systems are safe and functional. Many M&O positions require a commercial driver’s license, but the cost of the CDL classes can be prohibitive for employees. The APWA Washington Chapter wants to support the continued growth of M&O departments and employees through this annual CDL scholarship.
The scholarship will reimburse individuals up to $3,000 to cover the cost of the CDL training. Applicants may apply at any time during the year and applications will be reviewed within 30 days.
Download Fall 2026 Application
Applications must be submitted in electronic format (PDF), please download. Forms filled out online do not save. No hard copies will be accepted.
Applications are due by December 4, 2026.
Email questions and final applications with essays to both APWA Scholarship Committee Co-Chairs:
Liam Olsen, liam.olsen@jacobs.com, Co-Chair
Alex Johnson, amjohnson@desmoineswa.gov, Co-Chair
Eligibility Criteria
- The application process is open to current public works employees who need a CDL to advance in their career or people seeking a position in public works and need a CDL as a condition of their employment.
- The applicant shall be currently enrolled in a CDL class, have completed a CDL class in the last 6 months, or are intending to enroll in the next 6 months from the date of the application.
- The applicant must be a WA state resident who is working or seeking work in WA state.
2026 CDL Scholarship Winners
![]() |
CDL Scholarships (training for CDL classes) Amount Awarded: $3,000 |
Miguel Perez Skamania County Road Dept |
![]() |
CDL Scholarships (training for CDL classes) Amount Awarded: $3,000 |
Fane Katoa City of Tukwila |

