Anneliese Lightfoot, a local Glynn County real estate agent, has established the Trade Futures Fund through the Coastal Pines Technical College Foundation with a $5,000 founding gift to support students pursuing careers in the skilled trades.
Mrs. Lightfoot created Trade Futures out of a belief in the value of skilled trades and the opportunities they provide. Through the fund, she hopes to support students who are motivated to learn a skill, willing to work hard and eager to build a career that provides a valuable service to their communities.
“I’ve always believed there is tremendous value in learning a skilled trade,” said Lightfoot. “If someone develops a valuable skill, combines it with a strong work ethic and a great attitude, they have something they can carry with them for the rest of their life and a means of supporting themselves.”
As a real estate professional, Lightfoot also sees firsthand the ongoing need for skilled tradespeople in the community. While many scholarship opportunities recognize academic achievement and support students pursuing traditional four-year degrees, Trade Futures is designed to reach students whose strengths may not be reflected in a high GPA or a long list of academic accolades.
“I want Trade Futures to reach a different student; the person who may not have the highest GPA, but who is motivated, willing to work, eager to learn a skill and wants to build a career providing a valuable service to our community,” Lightfoot said.
The Trade Futures Fund is intended to grow beyond its initial $5,000 contribution. The Foundation and Mrs. Lightfoot hope to build the fund through additional community contributions and fundraising events, allowing more Coastal Pines students to receive assistance as they pursue skilled-trade careers. Rather than establishing a predetermined scholarship amount, future awards will be based on individual student need.
“We are incredibly grateful to Anneliese for investing in our students and recognizing the importance of skilled trades to the future of our region,” Stephanie Roberts, Executive Director of College Advancement. “Her vision for Trade Futures aligns so well with our mission of helping students access the education and training they need to build successful careers and strengthen our communities.”
The Trade Futures Fund will provide an ongoing opportunity for individuals and organizations to invest in students preparing for careers in the skilled trades through Coastal Pines Technical College.
Students can apply for this scholarship starting October 19, 2026. For more information about supporting the Trade Futures Fund, contact the Coastal Pines Technical College Foundation at www.coastalpines.edu/foundation.