young people discover the trades

Where Today’s Youth Are Discovering the Trades

Gen Z has gotten a bad rap. Older generations have bemoaned what they view as a lackluster work ethic and an obsession with going viral. While it’s true that Gen Z grew up immersed in social media, they are shedding the “lazy” reputation their elders

Read More »
donors role in advancing the trades

Understanding the Role Donors Play in Advancing Trades Opportunities

Nonprofit donations provide critical support in attracting young people to the skilled trades. Nonprofits have been established to provide resources and information for those considering the skilled trades as well as cementing partnerships with trades schools and apprenticeship programs to facilitate education for burgeoning tradespeople.

Read More »
trades education in american high schools

The Importance of Trades Education in American High Schools

American high schools have traditionally emphasized a pathway that leads directly to four-year colleges. However, this focus often overlooks the substantial benefits and opportunities that vocational education can offer students. As the demand for skilled tradespeople surges across the nation, incorporating trades education into high

Read More »

Be Open to New Ideas

As an old-timer myself, I have a lot of respect for experienced trade workers. The old saying, “practice makes perfect,” applies to many walks of life. I’m sure you’d rather be operated on by a surgeon who has performed a procedure hundreds of times rather

Read More »

Trades Talk – July 2024

July 2024 Fireworks & Dessert Party with Explore The Trades Join Explore The Trades at EPCOT® for a Fireworks & Dessert Party! Explore The Trades is excited to be headed to Walt Disney World® for a “Fireworks and Dessert” party in EPCOT®. Enjoy great food,

Read More »
glass of water filling

Five Unsung Comforts Provided Through the Trades

We owe the professionals in the skilled trades a lot. It is not a reach to say that our society is fully reliant on their work. Without proper electrical, plumbing, and HVAC services, our communities would be far less comfortable and not nearly as healthy.

Read More »

Skipping College

My background as a writer compels me to spend a lot of time on the flip side as a reader. Mornings almost always start out with a two-hour reading session, mostly of news publications. (I’m retired, so I have the time.) More and more, my

Read More »