DEFEND THE AMERICAN WORKFORCE
Supporting The Hard-working People Who Do The Work We All Depend On.
Through funds, resources, gear, and partnerships, a portion of every DEFEND camera sold gives back to people and communities across this country. Defend the American Workforce creates tangible ways to stand behind working Americans and invest in the work that our communities depend on every day.
The Trades Are Facing a Critical Gap
America needs more people ready to build, power, repair, and maintain this country. Without a new generation stepping up, critical infrastructure and vital industries stall.
349,000
new workers needed in 2026 alone to meet demand
92%
of construction firms report severe difficulty filling craft positions.
41%
of the current skilled trade workforce will retire by 2031.
BLUE COLLAR SCHOLAR PROGRAM
HELPING THE NEXT GENERATION GET TO WORK
In 2026, DEFEND will award $150,000 across multiple Blue Collar recipients to help cover education, certifications, licensing, tools, PPE and other costs that can stand between someone and a career in the trades.
How It Works
- TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF
Complete the application and submit a short video telling us what trade you're pursuing, why you've chosen it, and how Blue Collar Scholar funding might help. - WE REVIEW APPLICATIONS
Applications are reviewed and selected recipients will be contacted directly by the DEFEND team. - GET TO WORK
Awarded recipients receive support toward qualifying education, training, tools, equipment and other expenses that can help them keep moving forward in their journey into the trades.
Eligibility Quick-Check
WHO QUALIFIES?
- Individuals 16 years of age or older (Minors require Parent/ Legal Guardian signoff)
- Legal residents of the United States
- Anyone pursuing or intending to pursue a career in the skilled trades
- Cannot be employed by or an immediate relative or affiliated associate of Deer Management Systems, LLC
- Final eligibility subject to official Terms & Conditions
What DEFEND Covers
EDUCATION & TRAINING: Trade school tuition, apprenticeship dues, and specialized course fees.
GEAR & PPE: High-durability boots, hard hats, workwear, and safety equipment.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE: Trade-specific hand and power tool sets.
CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSING: testing fees, safety credentials, and state licenses.
KNOW SOMEONE WHO NEEDS A SHOT?
If you know someone working toward a career in the trades who could use some help getting started, nominate them for Blue Collar Scholar.
Tell us who they are, the path they're pursuing and why you think they deserve consideration.