February 7, 2019
Koch Industries supports programs teaching job skills that prepare students for success. That’s why we partnered with the Charles Koch Foundation to support two projects with the mikeroweWORKS Foundation – the Work Ethic Scholarship Program and the Unpacking the S.W.E.A.T. Pledge video project. In addition to providing financial support for students pursuing a career in the trades, the video project brings to life the 12 elements of Mike Rowe’s S.W.E.A.T. Pledge to help anyone willing to work hard better understand the elements and take the Pledge themselves. The pledge, signed by recipients of the scholarship and available to anyone, was created from Mike's personal experience working with entrepreneurs and hardworking people across the country. Learn about the pledge here.
Check out the S.W.E.A.T Pledge video series featuring Mike Rowe below, and check back for more updates and stories from scholarship recipients.
Pledge 1
“I believe that I have won the greatest lottery of all time. I am alive. I walk the Earth. I live in America. Above all things, I am grateful.”
Pledge 2
“I believe that I am entitled to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Nothing more. I also understand that "happiness" and the "pursuit of happiness" are not the same thing.”
Pledge 3
“I believe there is no such thing as a "bad job." I believe that all jobs are opportunities, and it's up to me to make the best of them.”
Pledge 4
“I do not "follow my passion." I bring it with me. I believe that any job can be done with passion and enthusiasm.”
Pledge 5
“I deplore debt, and do all I can to avoid it. I would rather live in a tent and eat beans then borrow money to pay for a lifestyle I can’t afford.”
Pledge 6
“I believe that my safety is my responsibility. I understand that being in “compliance” does not necessarily mean I’m out of danger.”
Pledge 7
“I believe the best way to distinguish myself at work is to show up early, stay late, and cheerfully volunteer for every crappy task there is."
Pledge 8
“I believe the most annoying sounds in the world are whining and complaining. I will never make them. If I am unhappy in my work, I will either find a new job, or find a way to be happy."
Pledge 9
“I belive that my education is my responsibility, and absoltuely cirtical to my success. I am resolved to learn as much as I can from whatever source is available to me. I will never stop learning, and understand that library cards are free."
Pledge 10
“I believe that I am a product of my choices – not my circumstances. I will never blame anyone for my shortcomings or the challenges I face. And I will never accept the credit for something I didn’t do."
Pledge 11
“I understand the world is not fair, and I’m OK with that. I do not resent the success of others."
Pledge 12
“I believe that all people are created equal. I also believe that all people make choices. Some choose to be lazy. Some choose to sleep in. I choose to work my butt off."