Celebrating the 2025 Trade School Scholarship Winners by Metal Supermarkets

Metal Supermarkets Celebrates Trade School Scholarship Recipients

On August 18, 2025, Metal Supermarkets, the largest global supplier of small-quantity metals, proudly announced the recipients of its 2025 Trade School Scholarship program. This initiative supports students pursuing a career in trades, a sector critical for the North American economy.

The scholarship awards $2,500 to each of the four selected students, emphasizing the company's commitment to bridging the skills gap in the workforce. Experts estimate that by 2029, over 320,000 welding professionals will be necessary, with around 80,000 new positions expected annually between 2025 and 2029. Recognizing the urgent need for skilled trades workers, Metal Supermarkets launched this $10,000 scholarship initiative in 2022 and has since awarded a total of $40,000 to diligent apprentices.

Meet the 2025 Scholarship Awardees

Bryce Bain, Norman, Oklahoma

Bryce is set to enhance his welding skills through studies at Tulsa Welding School, where he plans to become a certified welding inspector. His involvement in Future Farmers of America (FFA) during high school, competing in various welding and agricultural mechanics competitions, reflects his commitment and passion. Having already achieved a level 1 structural welding certification, Bryce frequently takes on welding tasks for local farmers, paving his way to a successful career in the industry.

Kristina Glasow, Simpsonville, South Carolina

Currently enrolled at WyoTech, Kristina specializes in collision and refinishing technology. Her aspirations lie in the automotive sector, specifically focusing on classic car restorations and high-performance builds. Kristina aims to merge her passion for preserving the original aesthetics of classic cars with modern enhancements that improve performance and durability. Her journey showcases the unique intersection of craftsmanship and automotive ingenuity.

Jackson Owens, Spicer, Minnesota

Studying AAS industrial welding at Ridgewater College, Jackson has already made his mark in the field by participating in national competitions like SkillsUSA and the American Welding Society's Behind the Mask. Operating a mobile welding business, he is not only sharpening his skills but also mentoring younger aspiring welders, ensuring the legacy of craftsmanship is passed on. The scholarship will bolster his educational journey as he continues to support the welding community.

Jadea Smith, Eganville, Ontario, Canada

As a registered 456A welding apprentice through the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship program, Jadea's journey began with a high-school initiative promoting women in trades. The scholarship will aid her enrollment in the Welder-Fitter Mechanical Technician program at Canadore College, facilitating her ambition to excel in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Jadea represents the new generation of skilled tradespeople, breaking boundaries and inspiring others.

Building the Future of Skilled Trades

Ryan Pryznyk, President and CEO of Metal Supermarkets, expressed pride in the scholarship winners, stating, "It's heartwarming to see these students eager to join the skilled trades workforce. Their future contributions will be vital in addressing the current skilled labor shortage across North America. This scholarship supports their journey as they enhance their education."

The selection committee for the Trade School Scholarship included Metal Supermarkets corporate staff and franchisees from locations across North America, illustrating a diverse range of perspectives in recognizing potential in skilled trades.

To explore the details of this impactful program and learn about past recipients, visit Metal Supermarkets Trade School Scholarship.

With over 130 physical stores across the U.S., Canada, and the UK, Metal Supermarkets continues to play a crucial role in the metal industry while nurturing future generations of workers. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the company is known for its swift service and extensive variety of metals, from aluminum to copper, along with specialized metal processing services that cater to diverse customer needs.