Blog

There are few truer sayings than “It is never too late.” It’s never too late to change, build better habits, or take on new challenges. It is never too late to launch a career that is fulfilling, stable, and allows you to provide for yourself and your family. The trades offer exactly that...

April 2023 New and Updated Resources Ready for You Explore The Trades has updated our most popular resource – the career path handouts. With a refreshed the look and updated stats, these resources are what you need to promote the trades of plumbing, heating, cooling and electrical. PLUS! We’ve...

For the last several decades April 21 has been marked on many calendars as Earth Day, dedicated to environmental protection. Many communities schedule programs and festivities on that date to draw attention to environmental problems and solutions. One problem in particular stands out. If you’re not...

I was about to submit a different insight for this month’s first blog, but during my daily online reading, an article about the importance of skilled workers as we enter a new phase of space exploration caught my eye. “ … Many different launch and crew vehicles, private space facilities, and other...

As an alternative to four-year college programs, trade schools offer students an opportunity to gain practical, hands-on training and education in their chosen career path, boasting lower tuition costs and a shorter degree track, allowing graduates to enter the workforce as soon as possible. With an...

March 2023 Celebrate Women in the Trades! Celebrate Women’s History Month with Explore The Trades! Get inspired by women like Lillian Baumbach. Did you know that Lillian was the first female licensed master plumber in the U.S.? Lillian got her master’s license in 1951 in Virginia! Learn about...

The construction industry will need to attract an estimated 546,000 additional workers on top of the normal pace of hiring in 2023 to meet the demand for labor, according to the Associated Builders and Contractors, a construction industry trade association. “As the demand for construction services...

You’re young, you’re inexperienced, your school grades were poor to middling, and you haven’t accomplished much in life beyond earning minimal wages in a few low-skilled part-time jobs. Yet, you’ve managed to somehow wiggle your way into an interview for a trade apprenticeship program or an entry-level...

February 2023 A Special Thank You to 2022 Donors The work of Explore The Trades cannot happen without those who believe passionately in the trades of plumbing, HVAC, and electrical. To the 123 companies, 68 individuals and two organizations who made donations to the organization in 2022, thank you. For...