STEP and the JRO Foundation Present
The Justin Owens Memorial Scholarship
WHO ARE BOILERMAKERS?
From the Boilermaker's Union, "The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers is a diverse union representing workers throughout the United States and Canada in industrial construction, repair, and maintenance; manufacturing; shipbuilding and marine repair; railroads; mining and quarrying; cement kilns; and related industries. Any member of The International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers and Helpers may call himself or herself a Boilermaker, and many do even though they do not actually work in boiler construction and repair. So you may hear our members refer to themselves as blacksmiths, forgers, ship builders, cement workers, stove workers, metal polishers, or numerous other job descriptions."
If a new power plant or container ship is being built, it's boilermakers that make it happen.
Check out the video to see Boilermakers in action. >>
We are proud to present this scholarship in honor of Justin Owens, a proud Boilermaker who embodied the skills, grit, and passion of a true tradesman. This scholarship is about more than just a financial gift, it’s meant to have a profound impact on a young person looking to enter the skilled trades. Together with the JRO Foundation, we want to change lives.
Two $10,000 Scholarships
This partnership is looking for two high school students who are planning to attend a technical college or training program to entering the trades associated with Boilermakers, such as welding, fabricating, or pipe fitting.
We are looking to give two $10,000 scholarships for graduates of the 2026 school year. Below, you will find the application and requirements.
Requirements:
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Completed JRO Foundation Scholarship Application
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Reference contact information
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Personal Statement (written statement, a video submission, a voice note, etc.)
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Must be a 2026 graduating high school senior
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Must be a full time resident of the State of New Jersey
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Applications will be accepted December 15, 2025 - March 31, 2026
The Barren Run 2025
The Barren Run took place on October 11, 2025 in Forked River, NJ. It started with a ride through the famous Pine Barrens and ended with a gathering of Justin's loved ones and an auction of gear, art, and tools.
The JRO Foundation graciously and generously chose STEP to be the beneficiary of this event, as they knew Justin was a huge believer in supporting the next generation of tradespeople. We were on-hand to meet everyone and pay respect to this great tradesman. We talked to countless folks at the event who wished they had the kind of support we want to give kids now, back when they were in high school.
By investing in the next generation, we’re keeping his spirit alive and honoring what meant so much to Justin — and continues to mean so much to all of us.
