Now Open: Skills Lab Equipment Grant Applications!
Explore The Trades is thrilled to announce that applications are now open for the “Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson” equipment grant program! This initiative – proudly built in partnership with Ferguson – empowers schools to create hands-on learning environments that introduce students to the skilled trades.
Whether you’re a school ready to expand your career and technical education offerings, or an industry professional looking to support the next generation, now is the time to get involved. Share this opportunity with a school in your area and help grow the future of the skilled trades.
Applications are open now through March 31st, 2026.
Spread the word and encourage schools to apply today!
Partner with Schools. Build the Future.
Explore The Trades is building a nationwide network of businesses committed to supporting local schools and inspiring the next generation of skilled trades professionals.
By taking our Bridging the Gap survey, your organization plays a vital role in connecting education with industry – and shaping the future workforce.
Whether you’re ready to offer mentorship, host site visits, provide resources, or simply want to explore ways to get involved, we want to hear from you!
Take our eight question survey and join the movement.
Gen Z’s Blue-Collar Revolution
Jacob Palmer, a 23-year-old electrician from North Carolina, was a standout student who chose a different career path when online college didn’t click during the pandemic.
After exploring jobs, a conversation with a passionate tradesman inspired him to pursue electrical work.
Starting as an apprentice, Jacob launched his own business by age 21 – and now he’s debt-free, fully booked, and earning six figures. His story, featured in Fortune, reflects a growing Gen Z trend: rethinking the traditional college route in favor of the skilled trades and a flexible career pathway.
Read the full article with the link below.
Make a Difference with Your Demo
Explore The Trades is excited to partner with pulseM + Customer Lobby and EverConnect to support the next generation of skilled trades professionals. Now through the end of the year, plumbing, HVAC, or electrical contractors who complete a demo with either company will trigger a $50 donation will be made to Explore The Trades!
These demos do more than grow your business – they help fund classroom resources, equipment grants, and school partnerships that introduce students to careers in the trades.
- pulseM + Customer Lobby
Automate customer touchpoints, boost reviews, and drive retention.
- EverConnect
Get qualified leads and digital marketing support to grow your business.
Let’s keep building the future of the trades – one demo at a time.
Donor Spotlight: Kristyn Kelley
Director of Operations and Innovation
State Energy Inc.
State Energy Inc., a family-run air conditioning company serving South Florida since 1986, was founded on honesty, integrity, and “The Mark Standard” – a commitment to doing the right thing, every time.
Today, Kristyn Worrell Kelley carries forward her parents’ legacy while modernizing operations and strengthening the skilled trades pipeline. An enthusiastic supporter of Explore The Trades, Kristyn champions workforce development, especially for women, and leads local STEM initiatives that connect educators with real-world experiences. Through these efforts, she is bridging education and industry, ensuring students see HVAC and the skilled trades as purposeful, future-forward careers.
Follow the link below to learn more about Kristyn!
Donors of Explore The Trades support the next generation of tradespeople and the legacy of the plumbing, HVAC, and electrical trades.
To our supporters, we thank you.
To learn more about supporting Explore The Trades and its donors, click the link below.