Careers in construction and the skilled trades don’t always follow a traditional path, but they are essential, rewarding, and full of opportunity. At EDiS Company, our roots are firmly planted in those paths. We were built on vision, grit, and a deep respect for the trades—values that continue to shape who we are today.
That foundation inspired the Generation III Scholarship, a program created to support students at multiple stages of their education—from those entering the skilled trades to college students pursuing careers in construction—while honoring the leaders who helped transform EDiS into the company it is today.
Honoring the Generation That Built EDiS
The Generation III Scholarship was established by members of Generation IV—Andy DiSabatino, Rick DiSabatino, and Brian DiSabatino—in honor of Generation III: Ernie, Clarence Jr., Eugene, Paul E., and Richard P., Sr. Their leadership marked a turning point in the company’s history, expanding the business beyond masonry and concrete and embracing construction management as a way forward.
Generation III helped deliver some of the region’s most impactful and enduring projects—work that shaped skylines and strengthened the economic and educational fabric of Delaware. Just as important, many members of this generation came through vocational education themselves.
This scholarship is a tribute to those origins and a reflection of a long-standing belief that skilled trades matter and deserve investment.
A Scholarship Evolving With Real-World Career Paths
The Generation III Scholarship has been awarded in years past to support college students pursuing careers in construction. Today, that commitment is expanding.
The scholarship continues to provide $1,000 annually, and now reflects the many pathways that lead to successful careers in construction and the skilled trades, not just traditional college programs.
Scholarship funds may be used for college tuition, as well as the following:
- Trade or technical school tuition
- Industry certifications, licensure, or specialized training
- Required tools, equipment, or materials essential to the trade
- Other hands-on resources that directly support entry into the construction workforce
By broadening eligibility, the Generation III Scholarship proudly supports both college students and those pursuing skilled trades, recognizing that strong careers are built through a variety of educational paths, hands-on experience, and practical skills.
Eligibility Requirements
-
Graduating senior of a Delaware high school or current postsecondary student
-
Must be a Delaware resident
-
Must show financial need
-
Intending to or currently studying a Construction and/or Skilled Trade at an accredited college, trade, or technical school. (School can be located outside of Delaware).
Why the Trades Need Tomorrow’s Talent
The U.S. construction industry is facing a historic labor shortage that threatens its ability to meet current and future demand, with trade groups estimating the sector must attract hundreds of thousands of new workers each year—an estimated 439,000 additional workers in 2025 and nearly 500,000 more needed in 2026—just to keep pace with demand and retirements. A key part of this shortage stems from an aging workforce with 41% of workers expected to retire by 2031. With demand booming in housing, infrastructure, renewable energy projects, and data centers, the construction trades today offer strong job security, competitive wages, and clear pathways to skilled, meaningful work, making it increasingly important for younger generations to enter the trades, fill critical roles, and help build the backbone of America’s communities and economy.
A Message to Educators and School Leaders
Teachers, guidance counselors, and administrators play a vital role in helping students see career paths they may not yet realize are possible. Construction and the skilled trades offer meaningful, stable, and fulfilling careers and this scholarship is one way to help students take that first step.
We encourage educators and school leaders to pass this opportunity along to students and families who may benefit.
Carrying the Legacy Forward
At its core, the Generation III Scholarship is about access, opportunity, and honoring the pathways that built EDiS from the ground up. By investing in the next generation of builders, craftspeople, and construction professionals, we are carrying forward the same spirit of hard work and possibility that defined Generation III.
If you know a student who may be interested in a future in construction or the trades, please pass it on. Sometimes, one opportunity can make all the difference.
Applications are administered through the Delaware Community Foundation, with a deadline of March 15, 2026.
