Bradford White Strengthens Partnership with Explore The Trades

Nov. 7, 2024 — Bradford White Corporation, an industry-leading manufacturer of water heaters, boilers and storage tanks, has partnered with Explore The Trades for the second year in a row as they continue to bridge the technical talent gap by raising awareness of career opportunities in the skilled trades and support the next generation of […]
What If You Have No Good References?

Before they hire you, most employers will ask for references of people you have worked for in the past. They especially would like to know about former supervisors, department heads or company owners. The more prestigious the titles of the people you give as references, the more impressed a potential employer will be. Some of […]
Trades Talk – October 2024

October 2024 “Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson” Equipment Grants NOW OPEN! “Explore The Trades Skills Lab, Built by Ferguson” equipment grant applications opened on October 1st! Learn more about how the program can bring HVAC and plumbing equipment to YOUR school. Visit the link below to learn more. New this year, Explore […]
Trade Businesses Are Hot Investments

A couple of days ago, the Wall Street Journal ran a front-page article that is loaded with meaning for people in the trades. It described a trend of private equity investors buying up residential plumbing, HVAC and electrical companies. Some of these investors may have experience in the trades, but others don’t. They simply know […]
Explore The Trades’ Fundraiser a Sweet Success!

Thank you to everyone who attended the Explore The Trades “Fireworks & Dessert Party” fundraiser at EPCOT® in Walt Disney World®! A fantastic evening of Disney-themed treats, fireworks, and a little bit of Disney magic was enjoyed by the event guests. Through the generous support of home service companies and corporate sponsors, over $60,000 was […]
Smart Homes Need Smart Technicians

I remember way back as a child visiting some homes that still had iceboxes rather than refrigerators and milk delivered by a milkman. Similarly, I bet many of you reading this grew up in homes without many of the modern conveniences we now take for granted. Many “smart homes” of today are equipped with technology […]
Trades Talk – September 2024

September 2024 Register TODAY for an Evening at EPCOT®! Join Explore The Trades at EPCOT® for a “Fireworks & Dessert Party” fundraiser! Explore The Trades is excited to visit Walt Disney World® for a “Fireworks and Dessert Party” in EPCOT®. Enjoy delicious desserts, dazzling entertainment, and a chance to ride the popular attraction – ‘Frozen […]
Getting Hired With A Criminal Record

In my last blog I addressed some issues about landing a trade job despite so-called skeletons in your closet. Those bones might include things like DUIs, drug convictions or other misdemeanors. For less serious crimes, job opportunities will be limited in the trades but not completely out of the question. A felony conviction for any […]
Do You Have Skeletons In Your Closet?

Before hiring anyone, most trade employers will do a background check that includes criminal history, driving records and past employment. If they’re diligent, they will also attempt to contact the people you list as references to see what they say about you. If you have a clean background, have never been in significant trouble, and […]
Prepare To Answer These Questions

You’ve filled out your job application. If you fit the role, your would-be employer will ask to meet you for at least one and sometimes multiple face-to-face interview sessions. Whether you are a highly paid executive or a novice seeking to become a trade apprentice, how you handle this part of the process goes a […]