5 Reasons Students Should Consider Fire Sprinkler Apprenticeship Programs
5 Reasons Students Should Consider Fire Sprinkler Apprenticeship Programs Choosing a career path after high school can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. For students who enjoy hands-on work, solving real-world problems, and making a difference, the skilled trades offer exciting opportunities—especially in
The Hidden Heroes Behind Fire Sprinkler Systems
The Hidden Heroes Behind Fire Sprinkler Systems When people think about building safety, fire sprinkler systems often go unnoticed until they’re needed most. Behind the scenes, these fire suppression systems play a critical role in protecting lives and minimizing damage during emergencies. The fire sprinkler
Explore The Trades Receives Grant Support from the Enterprise Mobility Foundation
Explore The Trades has received a grant from the Enterprise Mobility Foundation™ that will help bridge the technical talent gap to the service trades of plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical. This support reflects a shared commitment to strengthening communities by investing in workforce development and
Trades Talk – June 2026
On the Road: Visiting Skills Lab Schools in New Jersey Our team recently had the pleasure of visiting three incredible Skills Lab schools across New Jersey: West Orange High School in West Orange, Toms River South High School in Toms River, and Cape May County
What Makes a Good Plumber?
What Makes a Good Plumber? If you’ve ever wondered if plumbing is a good career, the answer is a resounding yes. Plumbing is one of the most in-demand, well-paying skilled trades in the country. With strong wages, job security, and the deep satisfaction of solving
How to Find Great Trade Workers: A Complete Hiring Guide
Find a tradesperson who lasts. Discover proven best practices for hiring skilled trades people, from always-on recruiting to retention strategies that work.
Trades Talk – May 2026
Happy National Skilled Trades Day from Explore The Trades! We’re celebrating the next generation of skilled professionals who are learning, building, and powering the future. Explore The Trades and Ferguson Grow Skilled Trades Education with New Grants to 18 Schools Record-Breaking Interest Highlights Growing Momentum
Trade Jobs Are for Women: Empowering the Next Generation of Women in the Trades
Women represent a small share of the skilled workforce (roughly 4%). However, that is up from essentially zero in the 1970s. The number of women stepping into plumbing, electrical, and HVACcareers is growing and will only continue to grow.
Explore Your Impact – April 2026
Thank you to all the schools that applied for the “Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson” equipment grants! Please check our website on National Skilled Trades Day (May 6th) to see the list of this year’s recipients. HASTINGS HIGH SCHOOL SKILLS LAB VISIT